The Automation Federation Is Envisioned to Advance Technology Innovation and Applications

Research Triangle Park, NC (6 March 2006) – ISA announced the intent to create The Automation Federation as an umbrella organization under which associations and societies engaged in manufacturing and process automation activities can work more effectively to fulfill their missions.  It will coordinate the work of member organizations engaged in advancement of the science and engineering of automation technologies and applications.  The common objectives of the member organizations are to:
•    promote the value and image of the automation profession in contributing to manufacturing effectiveness and efficiency,
•    facilitate the development and dissemination of educational and informational resources intended to develop new generations of automation professionals, enhance the effectiveness of existing professionals, and advance the automation profession.
•    facilitate the promulgation of industry standards that enhance the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and safety of automation technology and application.
The Automation Federation will provide industry wide strategic analysis and coordination through its member organizations.  The Federation will provide technical management, administration, and integrated services such as seminars, web conferences, training, and conference services to be shared among participating organizations.
Ken Baker, ISA President said, “The membership of The Federation will be open to all organizations interested in promoting the development, implementation and commercialization of automation technologies.  We are delighted that ISA is able to join with such outstanding organizations as OMAC and WBF to establish this new umbrella group.”
OMAC and WBF announced their intent to be charter members of The Automation Federation.  The Automation Federation will allow WBF and OMAC volunteers to concentrate on the professional exchange of information between automation and manufacturing professionals.  Cost effective, technically oriented professional management will help WBF, OMAC, and other Federation members to coordinate their efforts and extend their reach into other active regions in the world.  In addition, The Automation Federation will provide more opportunities for professional interaction and sharing of knowledge through a broader range of services and coordinated activities.
“By joining with other non-profit organizations with similar interests, WBF and the other alliance organizations can better collaborate, interact, and leverage the resources of a common support staff to provide better services to all their respective members.”, said Maurice Wilkins, WBF’s Chairman, Millennium Specialty Chemical, a Lyondell Company.
“OMAC has been delighted with our formal affiliation with ISA that we started in 2005,” said OMAC Chairman of the Board Andy McDonald, Unilever, “and extending this relationship into a partnership with WBF and other relevant organizations promises to further elevate the visibility for the automation professional.”
The announcement was made at the WBF 2006 North American Conference held in Atlanta, Georgia.  The more than 200 conference attendees seemed pleased with the announcement and look forward to learning more details.  WBF, OMAC, and ISA have signed a statement of intent and expect The Automation Federation to be operational before the end of June, once the details, formal approvals, and legal tasks have been finalized.