Aurelio Delgado got his start in industrial automation as an intern for Omron while at Bradley University. He graduated in 2016 with a dual degree in Mechanical Engineering and Entrepreneurship and joined Omron to pursue a role in sales, with a focus on the packaging industry. In his first year, Delgado received the Omron Sales Excellence Award. Recently, Delgado has taken additional responsibilities as a trainer for Omron’s Engineering Trainee Program for the Southern California region.
How did you decide you wanted to stay with Omron after college?
After six months of training as an engineering trainee with Omron in Chicago, I really wanted to be in sales, and they gave me an opportunity, with no prior experience. I believe Omron is my first and last employer. Through them, I have been exposed to different industries, territories, customers and channel partners. Since day one, I have had very experienced mentors and trainers that go the extra mile to help me grow. Omron’s mission is to improve lives and contribute to a better society; I can tell you that along with improving the lives of our customers, Omron has also improved my life.
What industry issues are on your mind?
Traceability is a big trend on our radar, and we recently acquired Microscan to help with that. We can offer all the automation components that overcome traceability challenges in a packaging line; from barcode readers to controls with database connectivity. Our customers want to run smaller batches of customized products at faster speeds; while reducing waste and maintaining the integrity of their brand. We are adapting to provide that flexibility. We are also working on creating packaging solutions that incorporate the Internet of Things concept.
What advice do you have for younger generations just entering the industry?
Find mentors in your company, tell them you want to learn and show them that you are willing to go the extra mile. They will help you. That’s how I got to where I am. Omron saw I was eager and hungry, and they allowed me to take on the roles I wanted.
As a rising star in your organization, what is next for you?
I want to keep building a strong sales career at Omron. What is next involves acquiring more territory and strategic responsibilities such as covering more states, while maintaining the focus on our key industries such as packaging. My dream was to come from Latin America, study in the U.S. and find a company that is committed to changing the world, and that is what Omron is to me.
As a way to recognize young talent making their mark on the packaging and processing industries, PMMI set out to find 10 rising stars. OEM Magazine spoke with each On the Rise Award winner to find out where they think the industry is heading, how they have overcome obstacles in their careers and how the industry can better accommodate incoming generations to bridge the skills gap. Learn more about PMMI’s On the Rise Awards, and see the other winners.
