Research Triangle Park, NC (22 March 2006) -The keynote speaker for Automation West 2006 will be engineering visionary Richard E. "Dick" Morley, best known as the father of the modern PLC, or programmable logic controller. Automation West is ISA's premier western region automation and control conference, and will be held in Long Beach, California this spring. Morley's address is titled "The Future of Automation: Where Does the Road Lead?" and will offer insights based on three decades in the industry. He will provide insight on the future of automation and control, and how professionals can take advantage of evolving technology.
"My mission has always been to think in terms of the future," said Morley. "By anticipating the next big waves of technology, we can not only survive, we can shape the future of the industry." Morley holds more than 20 U.S. and foreign patents for inventions including the parallel inference machine, the hand-held terminal and magnetic thin film.
He is president of R. Morley, Inc., a global consulting firm specializing in manufacturing and process controls. He is the chairman of the board of the National Center of Manufacturing Sciences, a director for the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, and a member of the Automation Hall of Fame. During Automation West 2006, Morley will also preside over Innovation Alley, an exciting display featuring brand new technology from startup companies as well as leading advances from established companies.
Morley has hand-picked seven technologists based on their revolutionary thinking and ground-breaking inventions for this special section of the exhibition. ISA Automation West 2006 will be held at the Long Beach Conference Center on 2-3 May. The technical conference will feature more than 20 tutorials, panels and papers. Eight continuing education and training courses will offer rigorous professional education to enhance skills and performance. A comprehensive product and technological exhibition will showcase the latest automation and control solutions.
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.