NOVEMBER 20238MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY INSIGHTSIN MY OPINIONWHAT ARE YOUR CURRENT ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES AT BORGWARNER?During my career, I've undertaken diverse engineering positions within manufacturing and the automotive sector. These roles have spanned manufacturing, design, assembly line, and process design. In addition, I have collaborated with esteemed Tier-1 automotive suppliers like Plastic Omnium and Magna Seating. Early into my career, I recognized the constraints inherent in conventional assembly line design techniques reliant on standard work times and Excel spreadsheets. To address this, I delved into digital technologies such as digital twins, augmented reality, and machine learning. Leveraging process simulation software facilitated streamlined assembly process design, complemented by augmented reality for ergonomic assessments, which curtailed assembly line adjustments during equipment installation.In my current role at BorgWarner as a manufacturing engineering manager, I focus on nurturing the growth of my team members by coaching and up-skilling them to excel in their positions. I evaluate available technologies and identify operational gaps that could be addressed by implementing new technologies. This approach not only closes the gaps but also accelerates the achievement of our business goals.WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES THAT YOU HAVE FACED IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR?One of the major challenges faced in the manufacturing industry is the labour shortage. To address this critical issue, automation of processes is a viable solution. Automation demands extra resources for design and support, and not all tasks are readily automatable. This underscores the significance of a lucid vision and meticulous planning In an exclusive interview with Manufacturing Technology Insights, Randles shared his valuable insights on the challenges, trends and best practices in the strategic hydraulic equipment space. Trent Randles has 10 years of experience working for tier-1 automotive suppliers in the manufacturing industry, including leadership positions with BorgWarner and Magna Seating. In addition, he has held various engineering positions at Plastic Omnium working on operations, design and launch teams. Throughout his career he's led multiple digital transformation initiatives including building Digital Twins, utilizing Augmented Reality, and implementing Manufacturing Execution Systems to improve new and existing manufacturing processes.REDEFINING THE AUTOMOTIVE SECTORWITH INNOVATIVE MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS By Trent Randles, Manufacturing Engineering Manager, BorgWarnerTrent Randles
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