The International Society of Automation (ISA) recently had an opportunity to interview several members of the 2024 cohort of the ISA Executive Board.
In this first installment of a series to come, Francisco Díaz-Andreu, Vivek Gupta and Colleen Goldsborough share their experiences serving on the board.
Note: These interviews were edited and condensed for space and to conform to editorial guidelines.
FDA: Belonging to the ISA board is an excellent opportunity to learn more about ISA and learn about the responsibilities of a board. You also have the chance to give back some of the experience you have earned through the years in your profession and your activity in ISA.
ISA: What's a proud moment you can share from your time on the board this year so far?
FDA: One can be especially proud of having gotten some proposals approved or having influenced others, but the most important goal is to work as a team because we all contribute. I have enjoyed meeting highly qualified board members and staff. The best thing you can do in life is to continue learning each day.
ISA: Do you have any other insights about serving on the ISA board that you would like to share here?
FDA: The ISA board represents all members. If we want our voice to be heard and have influence in the Society, the best way is to participate actively — not only on the board, but in the various committees organized through ISA.
VG: Being an experienced automation professional, I filed my candidature, and I would like to thank all who voted in my favor. The ISA Executive Board gives you an opportunity to develop your leadership skills, increase your networking and share your thoughts for taking ISA to newer heights.
ISA: What's a proud moment you can share from your time on the board this year so far?
VG: I proposed to present a paper at ALC in 2023 in Colorado Springs on "How Automation & Digitalization Help in Meeting ESG Goals." It was accepted and I got the opportunity to present, which was well appreciated.
ISA: What do you most enjoy about serving on the board?
VG: Openness, great discussions and nice presentations with lots of learning and also things to unlearn. The ISA Honors and Awards Gala 2023 was excellent; loved it.
ISA: What brings you to the ISA board?
CG: During my years of being active in ISA since 2016, I volunteered for different areas within ISA including sections, districts, divisions and with Young Professionals. I wanted to use these skills, knowledge and experience and bring them to the board. I was also intrigued about what it meant to be on a board and to set the vision and strategy for the Society. I’m excited about the opportunity to learn and grow throughout this board experience.
ISA: What do you most enjoy about serving on the board?
CG: I’ve met lots of different people that have served ISA in different capacities. Their vision and differing points of view have been great to engage with. Everyone has their own expertise and value they bring to the board, which helps us reach a better, whole, well-rounded outcome on decisions. It is great to see it all come together, as everyone on the board and staff wants to see ISA succeed and thrive for years to come.
ISA: Do you have any other insights about serving on the ISA board that you would like to share here?
CG: Serving on the board means making decisions on behalf of the membership. It is nothing that I take lightly, and I appreciate the support of staff and other board members to make sure I am prepared and that I understand the responsibilities and decisions that are needed of me. If you are not ready to serve on the board yet, there are many different committees you can join to start understanding more of what would be expected of you. Don’t be afraid to get involved!
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