Tech Connect is a video series by MKE Tech Hub Coalition that spotlights the real voices behind Milwaukee’s growing technology ecosystem. Each episode features candid conversations with local tech professionals on leadership, career, culture, and what makes Milwaukee a place worth building in. 

In our second episode, we sat down with Wes Mukai, Vice President of Software Engineering at Rockwell Automation, and Punita Miller, Technical Consultant Manager at Rockwell Automation, for a conversation that spans career evolution, creating cultures of innovation, and the unexpected advantages of calling Milwaukee home. 

On unexpected skills: Both Wes and Punita emphasized the importance of networking—not as schmoozing, but as genuine curiosity about others. Wes shared how being broad across functions, rather than hyper-specialized, became an unexpected advantage as his career evolved. Punita added that the ability to fail, learn quickly, and move forward is what separates good leaders from great ones. 

On fostering innovation: Wes talked about setting stretch goals while giving teams freedom in the “how” and the “who”—leveraging AI, partners, and the broader startup ecosystem. Punita highlighted Rockwell’s innovation programs that encourage early-career employees to dedicate 10% of their time to new ideas, creating a ripple effect that extends beyond the company and into the Milwaukee community. 

On “Small-waukee”: From six degrees of separation at dinner parties to bumping into former colleagues at events across town, both guests reflected on how Milwaukee’s tight-knit feel makes it easier to build genuine relationships and navigate the city.