The future of manufacturing isn't being built by technology alone. It's being built by the people who design, maintain, operate, and improve the systems that keep industry moving forward.
That idea was on full display at the TradeConnect Automation Expo 2026, where manufacturers, engineers, educators, students, integrators, and technology leaders gathered at BridgeValley Community & Technical College to explore the latest developments in industrial automation and workforce development.
Hosted by State Electric Supply Company, the event brought together industry professionals from across the region for a day of hands-on learning, technical discussions, and meaningful collaboration centered around the future of manufacturing.
More Than an Automation Expo
TradeConnect was designed to create opportunities for people to connect with technology, resources, and expertise that can help them navigate an increasingly complex industrial landscape.
Attendees participated in technical sessions covering topics such as cybersecurity, smart manufacturing, process automation, industrial networking, drives and motion control, wireless monitoring, and AI-assisted engineering tools. Hands-on and cloud-based labs provided opportunities to work directly with technologies including FactoryTalk Optix, Studio 5000, PlantPAx, PowerFlex drives, FactoryTalk Historian, FactoryTalk AssetCentre, and more.
While the technologies were impressive, the true value of the event came from the conversations taking place around them.
Industry leaders, manufacturers, technology partners, educators, and future tradespeople were able to share experiences, discuss challenges, and explore solutions together. Those connections are what drive innovation forward.
A Commitment to Workforce Development
One of the most impactful aspects of the event was its partnership with BridgeValley Community & Technical College.
Attendees had the opportunity to experience BridgeValley's workforce training facilities, including the on-site Process Training Unit featuring the PlantPAx Distributed Control System. These resources provide students and industry professionals with hands-on exposure to real-world automation technologies in an environment designed to prepare them for successful careers in manufacturing and industrial operations.
As the manufacturing sector continues to evolve, workforce development remains one of the industry's most important priorities. Creating opportunities for students and emerging professionals to gain practical experience is essential to sustaining long-term growth throughout our region.
At State Electric, we believe investing in people is every bit as important as investing in technology.
Leading Through Partnership
For more than 70 years, State Electric has been committed to helping customers solve challenges, improve operations, and prepare for the future.
Today, that commitment extends beyond products and distribution. Through our Automation Product Group, technical training programs, engineering support resources, and partnerships with organizations like Rockwell Automation and BridgeValley Community & Technical College, we work to connect customers with the knowledge and expertise needed to succeed in a rapidly changing industrial environment.
Events like TradeConnect reflect our belief that progress happens when organizations work together. Manufacturers, educators, technology providers, system integrators, and distributors all play a role in building stronger industrial communities and creating opportunities for future generations.
Service Makes State
At State Electric, service means more than delivering products. It means building relationships, sharing expertise, supporting workforce development, and helping create opportunities for the people and industries we serve.
TradeConnect Automation Expo 2026 was a reflection of that commitment.
As automation technologies continue to advance, State Electric remains focused on helping customers navigate change through training, technical expertise, innovative solutions, and trusted partnerships.
We're proud to support the people and companies shaping the future of manufacturing, and we're excited about what comes next.