In this episode of Unplugged, hosts Phil Saboa and Ed Fuentes are joined by Darren Anderson, a lecturer of industrial automation and mechatronics at South Eastern Regional College. With over 28 years of industry experience, Darren shares his journey from being an electrical maintenance engineer to an educator. The conversation covers his hands-on experience with PLCs, microcontrollers, and IoT, as well as how he incorporates these technologies into his curriculum. Darren also discusses the growing adoption of Industry 4.0 and IoT in local businesses and the importance of apprenticeships in bridging the skills gap. 00:00 Introduction to Unplugged: An IIoT Podcast 00:30 Meet Darren Anderson: Background and Experience 02:15 The Drive Behind Learning and Understanding the "Why" 05:42 Strategy and People Before Technology 08:01 Upcoming Learning Goals: Ignition, Python, and SQL 11:23 Continuous Learning and Industry Adaptability 15:09 Challenges and Adaptations During the COVID-19 Pandemic 18:45 Teaching and Sparking Interest in Advanced Technology 21:56 The Role of Apprenticeships in Addressing Skills Gaps 23:40 Engaging Students in IIoT and Industry Practices 27:05 Personal Journey in Home Automation 31:22 Understanding Energy Usage and Temperature Impact 34:15 Challenges and Successes in IoT Projects 38:12 Factory Tours: BMW Motorrad and Spirit AeroSystems 41:08 Digital Transformation in Local Industries 45:01 The Importance of Small Data and Operator Knowledge 48:25 First Encounter with "Industry 4" and IoT 50:13 Influencing Students with Hands-On IoT Projects 54:04 Legacy Knowledge in Industry 4.0 57:20 Becoming an Industry Evangelist 59:05 Follow Darren Anderson on LinkedIn and Final Thoughts 60:20 Subscribe to Unplugged: An IIoT Podcast Connect with Darren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darren-anderson-401408b2/ Connect with Phil on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-seboa/ Connect with Ed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-fuentes-2046121a/ About Industry Sage Media: Industry Sage Media is your backstage pass to industry experts and the conversations that are shaping the future of the manufacturing industry. Learn more at: http://www.industrysagemedia.com