Automation Unplugged Podcast

#360: Speed, Precision, and the Business of Custom Integration with Jonathan Smith

Automation Unplugged Podcast

Show Notes

This is Automation Unplugged, and I'm Ron Callis. My guest today is Jonathan Smith, owner and founder of Fusion Automation Systems and Technology, based in Trumbull, Connecticut. Jon’s career started in a place most integrators can’t claim: behind the wheel as a professional NASCAR driver. After competing for four years and working his way toward the top tiers of racing, the economic downturn of 2008 and 2009 forced him to pivot. That transition led him into the world of smart home integration, where he spent the next 13 years working on high-end residential projects across Fairfield County, Westchester County, New York City, and even around the globe. In 2022, Jon launched Fusion Automation with a focus on boutique, design-forward smart home integration. His goal is simple: make technology feel seamless, perform beautifully, and disappear into the design of the home.

More from Automation Unplugged Podcast

Oct 21, 2026

This is Automation Unplugged, and I'm Ron Callis.

Oct 14, 2026

This is Automation Unplugged, I’m Ron Callis. Today, we’re bringing you a webinar One Firefly and our partner WAC Lighting co-hosted in July 2026, titled “Lighting for Life: Helping Homeowners Understand the Impact of Light on Health and Aging.”

Oct 7, 2026

This is Automation Unplugged, and I'm Ron Callis. Today I'm joined by Henri Beaudoin, Founder and President of Elite Automation, a luxury technology integration firm serving clients across Washington and Texas. Henri is a former software engineer who built Elite Automation around a high standard for quality, strong engineering, and a great client experience. He's passionate about developing great teams and raising the bar for what a modern integration business can be.

Sep 30, 2026

This is Automation Unplugged, and I'm Ron Callis. Today's returning guest on this AI Insights segment is Ian Williams, Founder, President, and CEO of Aspire Audio Video Solutions, a luxury residential technology integration firm specializing in estate-level homes throughout the Washington, D.C. metro area. Ian was last on the show back in August of 2023, on episode 248, and that's the one to listen to for his full backstory. Today we're focused on something newer, and that's what he's been building with AI.

Sep 23, 2026

This is Automation Unplugged, and I'm Ron Callis. Today I'm joined by Curtis LeMaster, owner of Control Designer, a custom integration firm based in Steamboat Springs, Colorado that handles control, networking, lighting, shades, and audio for high-end residential projects. Curtis came into this industry in 2000 as a bookkeeper and worked his way into programming, eventually handling AMX systems for professional golfers, rock bands, and an Abu Dhabi prince's private theater. He started Control Designer in 2003, moved the business from Orlando to Colorado in 2015, and today runs a small, deliberately focused shop that takes on a few clients at time.

See all episodes →