Research Triangle Park, NC (20 March 2006) - ISA has announced that industry expert Dick Morley will be working with ISA in a formal advisory capacity throughout 2006. Dick Morley is best known as the father of the programmable controller. He is a leading visionary in the field of advanced technological development. He is an internationally recognized pioneer in the fields of computer design, artificial intelligence, automation, and technology trend forecasting. Morley will be providing strategic advice to the ISA President and Executive Director in several key areas.
"Dick Morley is a tremendous asset to this industry, and we're lucky to have him working with us," said ISA Executive Director Patrick Gouhin. "He brings experience, knowledge, and energy to ISA's mission. We're confident that his contributions will help automation professionals around the world." Morley will work with ISA leaders and staff to identify opportunities to build membership, specifically in the younger demographic. He will also provide support in the development of ISA's value proposition, and work with leadership to expand The Automation Federation.
The recently announced Automation Federation will serve as an umbrella organization for associations engaged in manufacturing and process automation activities to work more effectively to fulfill their missions.Last year, ISA appointed Morley to organize the new "Innovation Alley" at Automation West 2006 and ISA EXPO 2006. He will implement and evaluate the flagship program. As "Alley Czar," Morley will recruit and select small companies with promising automation innovations. The Alley will provide an opportunity for attendees to see the future, along with the commercial innovations of today.
The Alley will also feature automation hardware, software, and service suppliers that are presented in the traditional exhibits. "Innovation Alley will be an exciting opportunity for folks to see innovations arising for the bright minds of emerging technologists. I've been privileged to encounter many of these individuals in my travels and engagements, and I'm delighted to be able to work with ISA to bring them to ISA events," Morley commented. Currently, Morley is the Chairman of the Board of National Center of Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS), Director at Large for the Society Manufacturing Engineers (SME) and a member of the Manufacturing Advisory Board for Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI).
About ISA
Founded in 1945, ISA is a leading, global, nonprofit organization that is setting the standard for automation by helping over 30,000 worldwide members and other professionals solve difficult technical problems, while enhancing their leadership and personal career capabilities. Based in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, ISA develops standards; certifies industry professionals; provides education and training; publishes books and technical articles; and hosts the largest conference and exhibition for automation professionals in the Western Hemisphere.
