Onkar Nerkar, a seasoned expert in industrial engineering and supply chain management, is at the forefront of driving Industry 4.0 innovations. With decades of experience, he has consistently demonstrated an ability to blend practical industry knowledge with thought leadership. Now, as a key figure at Wieland Group in the United States, Nerkar is spearheading efforts to integrate cutting-edge technologies such as IoT and data analytics into operations, particularly focusing on predictive maintenance. His initiatives have resulted in significant reductions in downtime, enhanced asset performance, and advancements in operational excellence.
Nerkar's career began in India with a keen focus on manufacturing operations. Over the years, he has held pivotal leadership roles at Cummins Technologies and Alfa Laval India, where he honed his skills in driving waste reduction and resource optimization. His commitment to eco-friendly processes highlights his dedication to sustainable manufacturing practices. At the heart of his approach is a belief in continuous improvement as a mindset, which he has seamlessly integrated into his professional journey.
His current tenure at Wieland Group sees him leading the digital transformation journey within the multinational company, renowned for its copper and copper alloy products. Here, Nerkar leverages his extensive experience to drive technological advancement and operational excellence. By adopting Industry 4.0 early on, he has been instrumental in pioneering greenfield supply chain projects and early-stage digital applications. His work underscores the importance of using real-time monitoring to not only reduce downtime but also enhance asset performance.
"Data is powerful, but only if we know how to use it."
This statement encapsulates Nerkar's philosophy towards digital transformation. He emphasizes that true digital transformation is not merely about technology adoption; it requires fostering a culture open to change. At Wieland Group, he places great emphasis on training and change management to ensure that employees are well-equipped to adapt to digital-first operations.
Nerkar's approach to integrating IoT and data analytics into predictive maintenance represents a significant shift in traditional manufacturing practices. By focusing on real-time data analysis, he ensures that potential issues are identified before they cause disruptions, thereby securing uninterrupted production processes. His efforts in driving technological advancements reflect a commitment not only to improving efficiency but also to enhancing overall asset management.
In addition to his technical prowess, Nerkar's unique ability to blend practical experience with thought leadership sets him apart as an innovator in the field. His contributions have not only optimized resources but also advanced eco-friendly processes across various manufacturing sectors. This holistic approach has garnered attention from industry peers and established him as a leader who champions sustainability alongside technological progress.
