Rylan Pyciak’s Perspective On Helping Shape the Next Generation of Industrial Automation Professionals

The manufacturing industry is evolving faster than ever. New automation technologies, artificial intelligence tools, and modern software platforms are changing how facilities operate and how engineers solve problems. At the same time, manufacturers face another challenge that may be even more important: developing the next generation of skilled professionals.

In a recent episode of the Automation Ladies podcast, hosts Nikki Gonzales sat down with Rylan Pyciak, CEO of Cleveland Automation Systems, to discuss the future of industrial automation, system integration, workforce development, and leadership in manufacturing.

The conversation explored everything from AI and software trends to hiring, mentorship, and why relationships remain one of the most important factors in business success.

The Evolution of Industrial Automation and System Integration

Industrial automation has changed dramatically over the past decade.

Historically, manufacturers relied heavily on proprietary software platforms and specialized programming environments. Today, engineers have access to more open tools, shared resources, and software-driven solutions than ever before.

Rylan discussed how modern automation professionals increasingly leverage open-source resources, online repositories, and collaborative development practices. Engineers can now access code libraries, function blocks, and development tools that allow them to solve problems more efficiently than in the past.

This shift is creating new opportunities for manufacturers, OEMs, and system integrators alike.

At the same time, it is also changing the types of skills that are valuable in industrial automation. Many organizations are seeing more professionals enter the industry from software engineering and computer science backgrounds, bringing fresh perspectives and new approaches to solving industrial challenges.

The result is an industry that is becoming increasingly connected, flexible, and software-driven.

AI in Manufacturing: A Tool, Not a Replacement

Artificial intelligence is one of the most discussed topics in manufacturing today.

Yet despite the excitement surrounding AI, Rylan emphasized a practical perspective that many industry professionals share: AI is a tool, not a replacement for expertise.

While AI can assist with troubleshooting, code review, documentation, and repetitive tasks, it cannot replace the experience, judgment, and critical thinking required to design and support complex manufacturing systems.

In industrial automation, every application is unique. Engineers must consider safety, reliability, maintainability, and long-term support requirements. Those decisions require human understanding and real-world experience.

AI can help accelerate certain aspects of engineering work, particularly in areas such as debugging code, generating documentation, and assisting with software development. However, successful implementation still depends on skilled professionals who understand the systems they are building.

As Rylan explained, manufacturers should approach AI with cautious optimism. Organizations that use it responsibly can gain significant benefits while still maintaining the human expertise that remains essential to manufacturing success.

Why Talent Development Matters More Than Ever

One of the most important themes of the conversation centered around people development.

As automation technology becomes more advanced, manufacturers and system integrators need a continuous pipeline of skilled professionals who can support increasingly complex systems.

According to Rylan, developing talent requires patience, investment, and a willingness to allow people to learn through experience.

Too often, organizations focus exclusively on results while overlooking the learning process required to create future leaders and technical experts.

In engineering and automation, mistakes are often part of growth.

Creating an environment where employees can safely learn, ask questions, and develop their skills helps build stronger teams and better long-term outcomes.

Successful organizations understand that workforce development is not simply about hiring experienced professionals. It is also about creating opportunities for new engineers, technicians, and automation professionals to build expertise over time.

Mentorship, training, and hands-on learning remain critical components of long-term success in manufacturing.

Why Relationships Still Drive Business Success

Technology may be evolving rapidly, but one thing remains unchanged: business is built on relationships.

Throughout the conversation, Rylan repeatedly emphasized the importance of trust, transparency, and communication.

One statement in particular captured this philosophy:

"Doing the right thing always goes beyond anything else."

Manufacturing projects are rarely straightforward. Requirements change, schedules shift, and unexpected challenges arise.

The companies that build lasting partnerships are not necessarily the ones that avoid every problem. Instead, they are the organizations that communicate openly, take accountability, and work collaboratively to find solutions.

This mindset is particularly important for system integrators, who often serve as trusted advisors to manufacturers navigating complex automation projects.

Strong relationships create trust, and trust creates opportunities for long-term collaboration.

In an industry built on solving difficult problems, reputation remains one of the most valuable assets a company can have.

The Manufacturing Workforce Challenge

Another major topic discussed during the episode was the industry's ongoing workforce challenge.

Manufacturers across North America continue to face difficulties attracting and retaining skilled talent. While many organizations are investing heavily in automation technology, finding qualified engineers, technicians, and maintenance professionals remains a significant hurdle.

Rylan believes the industry must do a better job of showing people what modern manufacturing actually looks like.

Many outdated perceptions still exist. Some people imagine manufacturing as repetitive, dirty, or physically demanding work with limited career growth opportunities.

The reality is often very different.

Today's manufacturing facilities rely on robotics, automation systems, industrial software, machine vision, artificial intelligence, and advanced engineering solutions. These environments offer opportunities to work with cutting-edge technology while solving meaningful business challenges.

However, attracting new talent requires more than simply talking about technology.

Manufacturers must also create workplaces that invest in people, support career growth, and provide opportunities for long-term development.

The industry's future depends on making manufacturing careers attractive, accessible, and rewarding for the next generation.

Looking Ahead

The future of manufacturing will be shaped by both technology and people.

Organizations that successfully adopt new automation technologies while also investing in workforce development will be best positioned for long-term success.

The conversation with Rylan Pyciak highlights an important reality: technology alone is not enough.

Artificial intelligence, modern software platforms, robotics, and digital transformation initiatives all have tremendous potential. But their success ultimately depends on the people who design, implement, maintain, and improve those systems.

As the manufacturing industry continues to evolve, leaders must focus not only on innovation, but also on mentorship, training, communication, and relationship-building.

Those investments will determine the future of the industry just as much as any new technology.

Listen to the Full Episode

Want to hear the full conversation?

In this episode of Automation Ladies, Rylan Pyciak, CEO of Cleveland Automation Systems, shares insights on industrial automation, AI in manufacturing, system integration, workforce development, leadership, and the future of manufacturing careers.

Listen to the full episode and join the conversation about how our industry can continue to innovate while developing the people who make that innovation possible.