Jay Hack and Navin Kulkarni with Fluke

At Fluke's Xcelerate 2026 event, Jay Hack and Navin Kulkarni introduced new AI features in eMaint, a maintenance management system. They highlighted four key features: AI-driven email data interaction, SOP generation from OEM manuals, natural language work order creation, and multilingual document translation. The AI features received significant interest, with 40 customers eager to join the beta test. The system ensures data quality, supports structured data ingestion, and allows for real-time updates. Future plans include enhancing work order management and leveraging historical data for better decision-making and asset management.

Outline

Xcelerate 2026 Event Overview

• Scott introduces the Industrial Talk podcast, highlighting the importance of industrial professionals and the event Xcelerate 2026.
• Scott mentions the event's focus on real-world strategies, predictive maintenance tools, and AI diagnostics.
• Scott emphasizes the importance of attending the event and mentions the swag received on site.
• Scott introduces Jay Hack and Navin Kulkarni, who have been on the hot seat before.

Introduction of AI Features in eMaint

• Jay Hack announces the launch of their first AI features in eMaint, which were well-received during the intro presentation.
• Jay mentions that 40 customers in the audience wanted to sign up for the beta test immediately.
• Navin confirms positive feedback from customers and customer success managers.
• Jay and Navin discuss the importance of AI in improving operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

AI Assistant for Email Data Interaction

• Jay explains the AI assistant feature that allows users to interact with email data in a chat GPT-style fashion.
• Jay provides a use case where users can query the system to get intelligent responses about asset information.
• Navin discusses how the AI assistant improves access to historical work orders and other data without the need for additional queries.
• Jay emphasizes the importance of having good quality data for the AI assistant to be effective.

SOP Generation and Document Digitization

• Jay introduces the SOP generation feature, which allows users to upload OEM repair manuals and generate preventive maintenance procedures.
• Jay explains that the SOPs need to be validated by the customer to ensure accuracy.
• Navin discusses the process of digitizing user manuals and other documents to make them accessible through the AI assistant.
• Jay and Navin highlight the benefits of having the latest and most accurate documentation available in real-time.

Work Order Generation and Prioritization

• Jay introduces the work order generation feature, which allows users to create work orders by speaking into their smartphones.
• Navin discusses how the feature can help prioritize work orders based on their criticality and importance.
• Jay and Navin emphasize the importance of having a complete and contextualized work order to improve maintenance operations.
• Navin mentions that the roadmap includes allowing users to close work orders through the system.

Translation and Language Support

• Jay introduces the translation feature, which allows users to translate dense documentation into other languages.
• Jay explains that the feature is particularly useful for customers operating in multiple countries.
• Navin discusses the process of validating translated information and the importance of having accurate translations.
• Jay and Navin highlight the benefits of having a multilingual AI solution to support global operations.

Future of AI in Maintenance Operations

• Jay discusses the future possibilities of using AI to track and analyze asset data and maintenance tech proficiency.
• Jay mentions that AI can help infer the rate of learning and competency of maintenance techs.
• Navin discusses the potential for normalizing data across different geographic locations to improve decision-making.
• Jay and Navin emphasize the importance of having a secure and reliable AI solution to support maintenance operations.

Conclusion and Contact Information

• Jay and Navin provide their contact information for listeners who want to connect with them on LinkedIn.
• Scott wraps up the podcast, encouraging listeners to attend Xcelerate 2027 and connect with industry professionals.
• Scott emphasizes the importance of being bold, brave, and innovative in the industrial field.
• The podcast concludes with a reminder to stay tuned for future episodes and events.