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Interview 3 December 2025

30 Years of WAGO Automation – Interview with Tom Roca

In 1995, WAGO set a milestone in automation technology upon introducing a modular, fieldbus-independent I/O system. What began with a small team in Minden has grown into a global provider of integrated automation solutions. To celebrate the anniversary, Tom Roca, Vice President of the Automation Technology Division, shares insights on key developments, what makes WAGO Automation unique, and the outlook for the decades ahead.

WAGO looks back on 30 years of automation experience. Which milestones have been particularly significant — both technologically and strategically?

Tom Roca: If I had to name three key milestones, it all started with our bold market entry in 1995: With our first I/O system, we entered an established market and deliberately took a new path. For a company previously known primarily for spring pressure connection technology, this was a strategic move — and the beginning of our success story in automation.

The second major milestone was the evolution from the I/O system to the PFC controller family. This allowed us to offer customers a complete system with our own head stations and controllers. We are especially proud that we embraced open standards early on: We were among the first providers to offer Linux-based controllers and later Docker support. This demonstrates our commitment to staying at the forefront of technology.

The third milestone is the current transformation toward software- and service-oriented solutions. We are evolving from a hardware-focused supplier to a company delivering holistic automation solutions. These three steps show how WAGO Automation continually reinvents itself — without losing sight of its core values.

What excites you about WAGO’s Automation Technology Division — what makes it unique?

Tom Roca: WAGO Automation thrives on openness and interoperability. From the start, our philosophy has been to develop systems that communicate with each other — whether via BACnet, Modbus, KNX, or proprietary protocols.

We deliberately focus on integration rather than isolated systems. Another hallmark of our automation approach is practical innovation: We don’t develop in an ivory tower — we address real-world challenges in areas like Green Energy, Smart Building, and Intelligent Factory. This creates genuine added value for our customers.

Additionally, we combine global reach with local expertise: At our headquarters in Minden, we develop global products, while our teams in North America, Asia, and Europe incorporate local market requirements. This enables us to operate worldwide while delivering tailored solutions locally.

Do you have a favorite product in your portfolio — and if so, which is it?

Tom Roca: That’s almost like asking about a favorite child — hard to answer. But when we talk about 30 years of automation, our I/O system clearly takes center stage. I’d especially highlight the XTR line, designed for extreme conditions — such as severe temperature fluctuations or high electromagnetic interference. The XTR line embodies our DNA: technologically advanced, reliable, and built for the toughest requirements.

Another highlight is the PFC300 Controller. It exemplifies where we’re headed: more performance through a dual-core processor, integrated cybersecurity by design, and generous memory for complex applications. This makes it a platform for intelligent automation — far beyond the role of a traditional controller. In the context of customer-focused solutions and software-based automation, this is a decisive step forward.

When you think about your time at WAGO Automation, what moment stands out most and why?

Tom Roca: One moment that stands out for me is the development and market launch of the PFC300 Controller. This product meets our customers’ expectations because it delivers the higher performance urgently needed for complex applications. As a team, we were convinced of this controller, and it was inspiring to see the ambition and commitment with which everyone worked to complete and successfully position the product.

With the PFC300 — combining customer focus and our solution-oriented approach — we struck a chord in the automation world. What excites me most is seeing how differently our customers from various markets and countries — from Germany to Norway to France — adapt the controller for a wide range of applications. The success of the PFC300 shows the tremendous potential within WAGO Automation — and makes us eager for everything that‘s to come.

Looking ahead to the next 30 years — what developments or achievements do you hope to see for WAGO Automation?

Tom Roca: Even if I’m retired in 30 years, I look forward to following WAGO Automation’s progress — and being proud to have contributed to it. I hope WAGO continues to stand for technical excellence, genuine customer focus, and the courage to break new ground. I also hope we lead in areas that we can’t even imagine today — just as we couldn’t foresee in 1995 that we’d one day develop cloud solutions or AI-based systems. Most importantly, I want young engineers to speak about WAGO with enthusiasm decades from now — and for our technologies to help make the world more sustainable. If we preserve our values and innovative strength, I’m convinced: The best chapters in WAGO’s history are still ahead.

Curious for more insights into WAGO’s world of automation? Visit our website and discover what open automation can mean for your application.
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