A Celebration of Generations in Automation
Welcome to this month’s edition of MRG Wire, where we’re not just celebrating a milestone—we’re looking ahead to the future of automation and robotics. This August marks a special moment for HIRED! The Podcast as we release our 50th episode! Host Travis Miller is joined by a distinguished panel from Flex-Line Automation, a family-driven company at the forefront of manufacturing and automation. But this episode isn’t just about reflecting on the past; it’s about exploring the transformative power of generational shifts in the industry.
Bridging Generations in Automation
The industrial automation sector is undergoing a significant generational transition. As baby boomers begin to retire, the industry faces both a challenge and an opportunity: how to attract, train, and retain younger talent. Cathy Rinne, co-founder, President, and CEO of Flex-Line Automation, along with her daughter Lauren Van De Mark, Sales and Marketing Manager, exemplify this shift. They represent the bridge between seasoned experience and fresh, innovative perspectives.
Cathy and Lauren discuss the importance of demystifying the automation industry for younger generations. Lauren shares how Flex-Line is taking proactive steps to engage high school students by launching robotics clubs and educational initiatives. “We need to show them that automation isn’t just about machines—it’s about creativity, problem-solving, and making a tangible impact,” she explains.
Rebranding Automation: A New Era of Accessibility
One of the most exciting developments in the world of automation is how accessible it has become. The days when programming a robot required an engineering degree are long gone. Today, the tools and technologies are more user-friendly than ever, opening doors for a broader range of talent. Lauren emphasizes, “You don’t have to be an engineer to work in this field anymore. The barriers to entry are lower, and the possibilities are endless.”
This accessibility is crucial for attracting a younger workforce, who might be intimidated by the traditional perception of the industry. Flex-Line’s efforts to rebrand manufacturing and automation are not just about attracting talent—they’re about changing the narrative. Cathy and Lauren are leading by example, showing that a career in automation can be dynamic, rewarding, and forward-thinking.
Embracing the Future: Training Tomorrow’s Leaders Today
Cathy and Lauren also highlight the importance of succession planning and leadership development within family businesses like Flex-Line. With Cathy’s experience and Lauren’s innovative approach, the company is a model for how to successfully pass the baton from one generation to the next. Their story is a testament to the power of combining traditional values with modern strategies.
But it’s not just about family leadership—it’s about fostering a culture that encourages growth and development for all employees. From customer service to marketing, Flex-Line is committed to nurturing talent and providing opportunities for professional advancement. Marketing intern Isaiah Roth and Customer Service Specialist Cayla Sibley share their experiences, demonstrating that Flex-Line is more than just a workplace—it’s a place to grow, learn, and innovate.
The Path Forward: Inspiring a New Generation
As we celebrate the 50th episode of HIRED! The Podcast, we’re reminded that the future of automation is bright—but it’s also in our hands. By investing in education, lowering barriers to entry, and embracing new technologies, companies like Flex-Line are paving the way for the next generation of leaders in automation and robotics.
We invite you to tune in to this special episode to hear more about Flex-Line’s journey, their strategies for engaging the younger workforce, and their vision for the future. And as we release a new episode on the same day, this newsletter stands as a celebration of progress, innovation, and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.
Don’t Miss Out on This Episode!
Join us in celebrating our 50th episode milestone! Tune in to HIRED! The Podcast and discover how Flex-Line Automation is shaping the future of manufacturing and automation—one generation at a time. Listen now and join the conversation on LinkedIn.
Subscribe to MRG Wire to stay updated on the latest trends and insights in leadership, hiring, and the future of work in automation.
Connect with Flex-Line Automation:
Want to stream our podcast on another platform?