In the world of digital transformation, there's no "one size fits all" approach, much like parenting where you're suddenly "uncool" to your kids. At BlueScope Coated Products North America [CPNA], a leader in steel product solutions, we've experienced a similar disconnect with our parent company, BlueScope Steel, especially when it comes to embracing new technologies tailored to our specific needs.

CPNA, a joint venture between BlueScope Steel and Nippon Steel Corporation, operates through two divisions, ASC Profiles LLC and Steelscape LLC, across eight facilities in the Western United States. My role as the Project Manager for the Rancho Cucamonga Asset Intelligence project in late 2024 was clear: integrate AVEVA PI Software to foster prescriptive maintenance.

After attending the Lake Forest conference, I was convinced that AVEVA's solutions could revolutionize our maintenance strategies. However, persuading our parent company wasn't straightforward. Here's why we chose to diverge from BlueScope's preferred vendor:

• Skill Gaps: Our maintenance team at Rancho, primarily composed of former line operators from a union bidding process, lacks specialized skills for complex maintenance programs like Reliability Centered Maintenance [RCM], leading to a dependency on external contractors.
• Technological Lag: Without Electronic Document Storage, the benefits of AI and ML are stymied; technicians lose precious time accessing physical records.
• Synergy with Existing Initiatives: Our ongoing projects with Schneider Electric could synergize well with AVEVA’s Connect Platform, offering a holistic approach to our digital infrastructure.

Through these insights, we argued for AVEVA over our parent's choice, showcasing how this would not just fit but enhance our operational capabilities.

Just as parents learn to adapt to new trends to stay "cool" with their children, companies must adapt their strategies to remain relevant and effective. At CPNA, choosing AVEVA wasn't just about adopting new technology; it was about crafting a solution that resonates with our unique challenges and opportunities.

By embracing AVEVA, we're not just updating our technology; we're redefining our future in asset management, ensuring that our approach to maintenance is as innovative as the steel solutions we provide. As we continue to push the boundaries of what's possible with digital transformation, we invite all of you at AVEVA World to join us in this journey – because in the world of industry, staying "cool" means staying ahead.