# FABTECH 2023: A Finishing Industry Update from LestaUSA National Sales Director, Steve Schwartz By Engineering And Construction · Published 2023-10-02 · Updated 2026-03-26 · Engineering & Construction on MarketScale Canonical: https://www.marketscale.com/industries/engineering-and-construction/finishing-industry-update-lestausa > Manufacturers face critical questions about balancing automation investments with operational integration in modern finishing processes ## Key points - Manufacturers face critical questions about balancing automation investments with operational integration in modern finishing processes Block Field The modern manufacturing industry stands at the cusp of a paradigm shift ushered in by the robust adoption of robotic technology and automation, particularly in finishing operations. While promising a leap in efficiency and precision, this transition invites many challenges and considerations. As showcased in [FABTECH 2023](https://www.fabtechexpo.com/fabtech-2023), the amalgamation of seasoned expertise with innovative automation solutions seems to herald a new era, yet the path is laden with queries awaiting elucidation. One pivotal question resonates amidst the technological uproar: How can manufacturers seamlessly integrate and optimally utilize robotic technology in their finishing operations to foster an unrivaled standard of excellence? > How can manufacturers seamlessly integrate and optimally utilize robotic technology in their finishing operations to foster an unrivaled standard of excellence? In this episode of [Manufacturing a Stronger Standard](https://fast.wistia.com/embed/channel/5cd04vv9o5), hosted by [Derek DeGeest](https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-degeest-188252112/), President of the [DeGeest Corporation](https://degeeststeelworks.com/), DeGeest welcomes enlightening [Steve Schwartz](https://www.lestausa.com/our-team), the newly appointed National Sales Director for [**LestaUSA**](https://www.lestausa.com/). Recorded live at FABTECH 2023, DeGeest and Schwartz provide a finishing industry update highlighting the intricate dynamics of integrating [robotics in finishing operations](https://marketscale.com/industries/engineering-and-construction/robotic-technology-and-its-impact-on-painting-proves-that-automation-is-in-the-future/) and the myriad considerations in this transition. DeGeest and Schwartz discuss the following: - The significance of not merely integrating but aligning robotic technology with existing operations and local support systems to ensure a seamless transition and ongoing efficiency - The necessity of forging partnerships with local entities servicing the finishing industry, embodying a collaborative approach to navigating the complexities of robotic integration - The integral role of educating both distributors and end-users on the nuanced dynamics of robotics, ensuring an informed and adept transition towards automated operations. With his four and a half decades of experience in sales and distribution management, **Steve Schwartz** brings a wealth of expertise to his new role at LestaUSA. His vision encapsulates a collaborative ethos, aiming to foster a synergistic relationship between LestaUSA and local entities in the finishing industry. This partnership-centric approach seeks to ensure a smooth and informed transition towards robotic automation, addressing the multifaceted challenges head-on while propelling the finishing sector into a new epoch of operational excellence. > The journey toward robust robotic integration is not solitary but a collaborative endeavor. As this finishing industry update between DeGeest and Schwartz unfolds, it becomes evident that the journey toward robust robotic integration is not solitary but a collaborative endeavor. With a precise focus on education, partnership, and ongoing support, the duo sheds light on a pragmatic pathway forward to harnessing the prowess of robotics in the finishing industry, promising a brighter horizon for manufacturers striving to thrive in the modern industrial landscape. ### About the Speakers **Steve Schwartz** is the National Sales Director for LestaUSA, bringing four and a half decades of experience in sales and distribution management to the role. Tags: Derek DeGeest, fabtech 2023, Finishing Industry, LestaUSA, Manufacturing a Stronger Standard podcast, robotic finishing solutions, Steve Schwartz --- Source: MarketScale, https://www.marketscale.com/industries/engineering-and-construction/finishing-industry-update-lestausa. Published for AI indexing and citation; cite the canonical URL. Site guide for agents: https://www.marketscale.com/llms.txt