As 2017 draws to a close, the industrial automation sector has witnessed remarkable progress. Industry leaders have played a crucial role in driving innovation, expanding their companies, and shaping the future of automation. Their contributions have not only advanced technology but also influenced the broader development of society. To recognize these influential figures, we present the top ten individuals who made significant impacts in the industrial control industry this year.
1. **Li Gang**, Senior Vice President of ABB (China) Co., Ltd.
Li Gang was appointed as the head of ABB’s China Robotics and Motion Control Division in September and continues to lead the robotics business unit. His leadership marks a milestone as all four key divisions in ABB China are now led by Chinese executives. With over 20 years of experience at ABB, Li has been instrumental in the growth of the company’s robotics business in China and North Asia. At the 19th Shanghai Industrial Fair, he emphasized the need for digitalization and collaboration to address the shift from mass production to flexible, small-batch manufacturing. ABB also launched its ABBAbility digital solution portfolio and acquired B&R, reinforcing its digital transformation strategy.
2. **Dunner**, CEO of Bosch Group
Joining Bosch in 1986, Dunner has held various leadership roles, including overseeing automotive electronics and research and development. He has been a strong advocate for China's market, leading several Industry 4.0 pilot projects across the country. In 2017, Bosch introduced the next-generation TS5 conveyor system and collaborated with IBM on industrial IoT solutions, enhancing real-time data integration and smart manufacturing capabilities.
3. **David N. Farr**, Chairman and CEO of Emerson
Since becoming CEO in 2000, David has expanded Emerson’s presence in Asia, making China its second-largest market. In 2017, the company focused on acquisitions and investments, including MYNAH Technologies and GeoFields, while launching new facilities in Beijing and Suzhou. Despite a failed bid for Rockwell Automation, Emerson continued to strengthen its automation solutions in the region.
4. **Hai Handsome**, Chairman of Delta Electronics
As chairman since 2012, Hai has guided Delta toward intelligent automation and green manufacturing. The company achieved multiple awards, including recognition for its intelligent equipment and energy-efficient systems. Delta also earned CMMI-DEVML5 certification for its software R&D and received LEED platinum certification for its Shanghai operations center.
5. **Liu Kezhen**, Chairman of Advantech
Founded in 1983, Advantech has become a global leader in industrial IoT. Liu has driven the company’s focus on smart factories and IoT integration, earning awards for its Industry 4.0 initiatives. In 2017, Advantech introduced new IoT platforms and adopted a "co-governance" model to foster innovation and cross-industry collaboration.
These leaders exemplify the spirit of innovation and vision that define the industrial automation landscape. Their efforts continue to shape the future of manufacturing and technology worldwide.
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