Team Insights From a Week of Innovation
The 2025 Rockwell Automation Fair was a week of collaboration, innovation, and hands-on learning for the Concept Systems team. For many, it was their first time experiencing the scale of Rockwell’s sessions, labs, keynotes, and technology showcases — and each person walked away with insights into how automation is evolving.
As a long-standing Gold Level System Integrator and Featured Sponsor, Concept Systems makes it a priority to be present not just for technology but for the people. Our mission — apply technology to solve industrial automation problems for our customers — was front and center as we connected with distributors, customers, and partners throughout the week.
Below is a collection of reflections from our team: what surprised them, what inspired them, and where they see automation heading next.
Emerging Technologies That Mapped the Future
Breakthroughs in Controllers & I/O
Rockwell’s newest controller family, the ControlLogix 5590 series, was a major highlight for the team. Blake noted its increased performance, seamless safety integration, and future-ready development tools.
“This platform is going to change how we design systems. It’s super cool stuff — and our engineers will be hands-on with it soon.” ~ Blake
Paired with the release of PointMax I/O, these technologies signal a shift toward smarter, smaller, and more efficient architectures, perfectly aligned with Concept’s commitment to delivering thoughtful, modern engineering.
Unified Robotics Control (URC)
Dharma pointed to Unified Robotics Control as one of the clearest glimpses into the future. URC blends partner robotics with Rockwell Kinetix drives and standard PLCs, dramatically simplifying integration.
URC’s unified approach aligns with our resourceful engineering mindset — leveraging the right tools to reduce complexity and deliver better long-term outcomes for customers.
Read more about Concept’s robotic experience here Power Packed: A High-Energy Palletizing Solution | Concept Systems Inc
I had a great time exploring all that the Automation Fair had to offer from the show floor to the hands-on labs and presentations. I especially enjoyed the presentation on the new Armor PowerFlex Drives and the hands-on lab I attended for the EtherNet/IP in-cabinet devices and can’t wait to use some of these new technologies in future projects!
John
Software Evolution & The Next Generation of Controls Engineers
The transition to Logix version 38, the retirement of L7 processors, the deprecation of RSLinx, and the emergence of new development workflows all point to a more modern, software-centric automation world.
Dharma appreciated Rockwell’s investment in tools like FactoryTalk Optix, CI/CD workflows, and GIT-based version control, bridging the gap between traditional PLC programming and the technical skill sets of today’s new engineers.
“As old PLCs retire, we have the opportunity to re-evaluate ladder logic versus its alternatives.” ~ Dharma
AI Conversations Everywhere
AI dominated keynotes, breakouts, and panel discussions, revealing both excitement and hesitation across the industry.
Blake captured the tension best:
“If we push back on AI, we’ll only fall behind the curve. But we must use it carefully, so customers never feel like they’re reading AI-generated work.”
The theme reinforced a key truth: while AI can support our work, it cannot replace the thoughtful engineering teams who ensure solutions are safe, accurate, and reliable.
That balance reflects our deep commitment to customer success.
Hard Lessons & Practical Takeaways
Safety Documentation & Validation
David attended sessions that spotlighted the rapidly increasing expectations around safety documentation, especially during FAT, SAT, and change management activities.
Modernization & Legacy Solutions
David also shared immediately useful takeaways:
- Use Delta RMC as the preferred replacement for legacy AB motion modules
- Always contact vendors directly for legacy motor compatibility
- Expect a rise in retrofit opportunities as L7 platforms phase out
These insights support our mission to provide resourceful, future-proof solutions that reduce long-term operational risk.
Learning From Other System Integrators
Andre focused on learning how other integrators approach high-risk projects. A standout story: a zero-downtime PLC hot cutover at a major oil facility which was a powerful example of creativity and disciplined risk mitigation.
“You can work in this industry for your whole career and still have expertise in only a few areas. That’s why teamwork and partnerships matter.” ~ Andre
He also attended Rockwell’s Process Solutions User Group (PSUG), walking away with a clearer roadmap for how Concept can continue to strengthen our process expertise.
These moments reflect our inspiration to show up with curiosity and a drive to grow.
Customer & Distributor Priorities for 2025
Across conversations, customer priorities consistently centered on:
- Stronger ROI justification
- Reduction of operational and safety risk
- Rising labor shortages
- Modernization planning as hardware platforms age out
David summarized the trend succinctly:
“Engineering labor shortages are real and customers rely on partners like us now more than ever.”
This reinforces our role as a committed long-term partner for our customers.
Building Relationships That Drive Success
Relationships remained a defining element of the week. Andre spent valuable time with distributors across the Southwest, and the entire team showed up in force at partner events hosted by North Coast Electric, demonstrating unity and strengthening the channels that help us serve customers nationwide.
These interactions showcased our resourcefulness and our belief that strong partnerships make us more capable together.
Where Concept’s Strengths Align With the Future
From investing in employee development to maintaining long-standing customer relationships, the team saw countless reminders of why Concept Systems is uniquely positioned for the future of automation.
“When we look beyond the project and offer ideas that make customers better, that’s when our value is clearest.” ~ David
Closing Reflection
Automation Fair 2025 was a powerful reminder of why Concept Systems shows up as both a technical and relationship-driven partner. Yes, the technologies were impressive — but it was how our team connected those innovations back to real customer needs that made the deepest impact.
As we move into 2026, we remain focused on our mission: Apply technology to solve industrial automation problems for customers.
And we move forward inspired, resourceful, and committed to creating solutions that advance safety, productivity, and innovation for every client we serve.