Meet the Team – Henry Smith

Meet the Team: Henry, Paint Process Engineer

Precision, problem solving, and a passion for robotics. The three P’s that Henry Smith, one of the experts behind ASA’s advanced paint automation systems, lives by.

When you walk through the paint process area at Automated Solutions Australia, chances are you’ll find Henry focused on a robot in motion, monitoring its every move as it glides through a precisely programmed path. As a Paint Process Engineer, Henry is hand on with the technology that defines ASA’s work, programming robotic paths, fine tuning parameters, and ensuring every motion command meets the company’s exacting standards.

“I enjoy it because it’s where the action is,” Henry says. “You’re right there with the robots, seeing the results of your work in real time and knowing that precision matters.”

Every day brings something different. A typical morning might start with reviewing system verification manuals, but in a field as complex as automation, priorities can change fast. “Faults can arise from anywhere, hardware, software, or something in between,” Henry explains. “That’s where troubleshooting and a systematic approach come in. You learn to think critically and stay adaptable.” That commitment to accuracy and consistency is what drives Henry. “Every issue you solve gives you a better understanding of how these systems work together. It’s rewarding to see a solution come together and know that you’ve made a difference in the process.”

Ask Henry about his favourite robot, and he doesn’t hesitate. “The M-2000 series, hands down,” he says. “The capability and power it brings to the job are unmatched. It’s built for heavy lifting but still operates with absolute precision.” That balance of strength and control mirrors what Henry values most about automation, the harmony between engineering and performance.

Working with ASA has also taken Henry beyond Australia, where he’s had the opportunity to lead projects from start to finish. “Being responsible for an entire section of a production line and seeing it come together smoothly is always a proud moment,” he recalls. “It’s rewarding to know that the systems you’ve helped build are performing exactly as intended.”

Henry’s commitment to excellence doesn’t stop at robotics. Whether he’s troubleshooting a complex fault or taking on new challenges in unfamiliar environments, he approaches every task with focus and professionalism. Looking ahead, he’s excited to expand his skillset by jumping into PLC controls and everything it entails. “The software side of FANUC Automation is going to introduce a lot of new challenges to get adjusted to, but I feel up to the task and I’m eager to see how far an understanding of both sides of the work will take me.”

For those thinking about a career in robotics or automation, Henry’s advice is grounded in experience: “There’s only so far that university knowledge will take you. Getting hands on experience, learning from the people around you, and staying open to new ideas will take you much further. The industry is constantly evolving and so should you.”