As 2017 draws to a close, the industrial automation sector witnessed remarkable achievements from its leading figures. These industry pioneers not only drove their companies forward but also contributed significantly to technological innovation and industry progress. Their efforts have played a vital role in shaping the future of automation and manufacturing. To celebrate and highlight their contributions, we present the top ten individuals in the industrial control industry for 2017, selected for their outstanding impact and leadership.
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 this year. He continues to lead the China Robotics business unit, marking a significant milestone as all four business divisions are now led by Chinese executives. With over 20 years of experience at ABB, Li has played a crucial role in the growth of ABB's robotics business in China and North Asia. In his new role, he reports directly to An Shiming, President of the Group Robotics and Motion Control Division, and Gu Chunyuan, President of ABB China and ABB Group Asia, Middle East, and Africa. At the 19th Industrial Fair in Shanghai, Li emphasized the need for flexibility and digitalization in response to the shift in manufacturing models toward smaller batches and more variety. ABB also made several strategic moves in 2017, including the launch of ABBAbility, the acquisition of B&R, and the establishment of a robot digital service center in China.
2. **Dunner**, CEO of Bosch Group
Dunner joined the Bosch Group in 1986 and has held various leadership roles, including president of automotive electronics and member of the board of directors. He has been instrumental in expanding Bosch’s Industry 4.0 initiatives in China, starting with pilot projects in Suzhou and later expanding to multiple cities. In 2017, Bosch introduced the latest generation of TS5 conveyor systems, enhancing flexibility and real-time production visualization. The company also partnered with IBM to develop IoT solutions, aiming to improve device management and cloud-based updates through the IBM Bluemix platform.
3. **David N. Farr**, Chairman and CEO of Emerson
David N. Farr took over as CEO of Emerson in 2000 and has since expanded the company’s presence in Asia. Under his leadership, China became Emerson’s second-largest market. In 2017, Emerson focused on acquisitions and investments, including the purchase of MYNAH Technologies and GeoFields, while also investing in the Beijing Emerson Measurement Technology Center and the Suzhou Vortex Manufacturing Plant. His strategic vision helped Emerson strengthen its position in the automation and industrial technology sectors.
4. **Hai Handsome**, Chairman of Delta Electronics
Hai Handsome has led Delta Electronics since 2004, guiding the company toward greater global recognition. In 2017, Delta continued its rapid development, winning several awards for innovation in robotics and automation. The company also achieved CMMI-DEVML5 certification for its software R&D processes and received LEED platinum certification for its Shanghai Operations Center. Delta’s focus on intelligent automation and green technologies highlights its commitment to sustainable and advanced manufacturing.
5. **Liu Kezhen**, Chairman of Advantech Co., Ltd.
Founded in 1983, Advantech has grown into a global leader in industrial IoT solutions. Liu Kezhen has driven the company’s expansion into Industry 4.0, introducing products like the IoT Edge Intelligent Server and WISE-PaaS platform. In 2017, Advantech won several awards for its contributions to smart manufacturing and launched new strategies, including the “co-governance†model and the IoT.SENSE initiative. Liu emphasized the importance of sharing economy and cross-border integration in the IoT era, reinforcing Advantech’s vision for the future of connected industries.
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