Interstates and Rockwell Automation: A Synergy for Success

Interstates has a proud history of forming and cultivating strategic partnerships that improve our capabilities and lead to continued successful outcomes for our clients. Our long-term partnership with Rockwell Automation exemplifies this commitment. Since the early 2000s, when Interstates was a charter member of the Rockwell Automation Solution Provider Program, Interstates and Rockwell have collaborated extensively, leading to Interstates' most recent achievement: Platinum Partner status within Rockwell's System Integrator Partner Program.

A Long-standing Collaboration

The partnership between Interstates and Rockwell Automation is built on a foundation of mutual respect and shared goals. "We've been using Rockwell software and hardware for over 25 years, and we became one of their initial partners when they rolled out the official partner program in 2002," says Raymond Berning, Automation Manager at Interstates.

This extensive history has resulted in deep alignment and collaborative success. Brad Conover, Manager of NA System Integrator Partnership at Rockwell, echoes this sentiment, saying, "Interstates was one of the initial partners in our System Integrator Partner Program. The program gave us an opportunity to get more intentional with each other and elevate what we were doing together. Both companies have seen great success from the development of that partnership through the years."

Strategic Project Collaboration

Interstates and Rockwell Automation work together closely on various projects, leveraging each other's strengths from the initial planning stages all the way through start-up and commissioning. "We collaborate a lot on leads and new project pursuits, as well as project support, whether it's technical or hardware-related," explains Jeff De Boer, Automation Architect at Interstates. This collaboration ensures that clients receive comprehensive, high-quality solutions tailored to their specific needs.

Don Shoemaker, North America Regional VP of Market Access at Rockwell, emphasizes the proactive nature of the relationship. "Interstates plays a unique role because they have both systems integrator capabilities and construction capabilities, so they can provide near turnkey services for clients across the value chain, all with exceptional quality," he says.

Leveraging Advanced Technology

A key aspect of the partnership is the utilization of Rockwell's cutting-edge hardware and software. These technologies enable Interstates to offer innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency and productivity at their clients' facilities. "We are part of Rockwell's pre-release or early adopter software testing, which means we have access to new software before it's publicly available," says Berning. This early access allows Interstates to provide feedback and help shape the direction of future Rockwell products, ensuring that they will meet the specific needs of our clients and markets.

Conover highlights the benefits of this arrangement, saying, "One major benefit is the confidence Interstates' clients can have knowing they're working with a company that has the backing of Rockwell Automation. This partnership ensures that Interstates' clients receive first-class solutions backed by extensive expertise and support."

Achieving Platinum Partner Status

Interstates' designation as a Platinum Partner is a testament to having years of automation and controls experience, a commitment to innovation, a wide range of in-house capabilities, and strategically investing in a continued relationship with Rockwell. This prestigious status is reserved for less than 1% of Rockwell's 1,500+ partners and reflects a deep commitment to quality and innovation. "Platinum is all about differentiating yourself from the pack," says Conover. "It's an investment that Interstates is willing to make in the partnership, and it's an investment that Rockwell is willing to make back into Interstates."

Shoemaker adds, "Interstates' achievement of Platinum status demonstrates their capability and competency across many of our technical disciplines. This level of partnership means we proactively look at the market together and discuss how we can better serve customers and deliver greater value."

How Our Clients Benefit

The partnership brings numerous advantages to Interstates' clients. From extended warranties on hardware to rapid support and access to the latest software and hardware, clients benefit from the combined strengths of both companies. "Our clients receive not only support from Interstates but also from Rockwell, ensuring rapid resolution of issues and access to the latest technologies," says Berning.

Shoemaker emphasizes the quality of project delivery. "Platinum partnership benefits Interstates' quality of project delivery and ownership. Clients know that projects delivered by Interstates will be executed to the highest standards," he says.

Looking Ahead

The future of the Interstates-Rockwell partnership is bright, with both companies committed to driving innovation and delivering superior solutions. "We work closely with Rockwell on their product development side, providing feedback and helping shape future technologies," says Berning. This collaborative approach ensures that Interstates stays at the forefront of industry trends, jointly pursuing large capital investments in North America as part of Rockwell’s New Capacity initiative.

This dynamic alliance will continue to benefit Interstates' clients for years to come. Conover sees the digital transformation trend as the next big step for the Interstates/Rockwell partnership. "The real opportunity moving forward is growing in the analytics and data management space together. Leveraging our combined strengths will enable us to deliver smarter, more comprehensive solutions that give clients a competitive edge."

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