Insights from Industry Veteran Jason Becker Introduction: In the ever-evolving world of fluid power, experience and adaptability are paramount. In a recent episode of the Unfiltered Flow ELSC podcast, Meghann Cook and Alan Burdette welcomed Jason Becker, the Vice President of West Coast Operations at HYDAC, who shared his wealth of knowledge gained from over 44 years in the industry. This blog post highlights key insights from their conversation, shedding light on the changes, challenges, and opportunities in fluid power automation.
Main Content:
1. **A Journey Through Fluid Power** Jason Becker’s journey into the fluid power industry began on a family farm, where he was first exposed to hydraulics through hands-on experience with tractors. His early work in a fluid power company during high school laid the foundation for a career that has witnessed significant changes. He emphasizes the shift from small, privately owned distributorships to a landscape dominated by consolidation and private equity. Becker notes, “The individual distributorships have been sold off… and some of the engineering services have diminished.”
2. **Evolving Customer Needs** In his extensive career, Becker has observed a concerning trend among customers. He believes that many customers focus too heavily on cost rather than understanding the technological advancements available. He states, “They need to quit asking about the cost of things… and start exploring new technologies.” To bridge this gap, Becker’s team hosts quarterly Tech Days, showcasing the latest machinery and offering customers a chance to engage with new technologies and functionalities.
3. **The Importance of Technical Knowledge** During the conversation, Becker highlighted the importance of keeping up with industry advancements. He pointed out that while many customers are stuck in a rut, the advent of electronics in hydraulic systems is changing the game. He remarked, “We’re doing more and more autonomous or at least semi-autonomous machines.” This shift towards integrating electronics into fluid power systems presents new opportunities for innovation and efficiency.
4. **Recruiting the Next Generation** As the industry faces a talent shortage, Becker shared insights on attracting young professionals. He noted that recent hires often possess strong electronic backgrounds, reflecting the industry’s shift towards automation and advanced technology. Becker encourages newcomers to learn from seasoned professionals, stating, “There are so many different avenues and exciting things… e-mobility is becoming more prevalent.”
5. **Embracing Change and Innovation** The podcast highlighted the need for the fluid power industry to adapt and promote its advancements better. Becker expressed optimism about the future, mentioning exciting developments in areas like hydrogen energy and data centers. He stated, “There’s some exciting things happening,” emphasizing that the industry is far from stagnant. Conclusion: Jason Becker’s insights provide a valuable perspective on the fluid power industry’s current landscape. His experiences underscore the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and innovation in navigating this evolving sector.
Key takeaways include the need to shift customer focus from cost to technology, the significance of technical knowledge in engineering, and the exciting opportunities for young professionals in fluid power. As the industry continues to change, staying informed and engaged will be crucial for success.