The manufacturing sector is in the midst of a significant transformation, driven by digital adoption and evolving workforce demands. With an aging workforce and a persistent skills gap, particularly in the US where 35% of the workforce is over 60 years old, manufacturers are heavily investing in AI and automation as a solution.
AI and automation are not about replacing human workers entirely, but rather redefining roles and enhancing capabilities. By automating repetitive tasks with high accuracy, AI-enabled robotics free up human employees to focus on higher-value activities such as innovation, product development, and complex problem-solving. This shift necessitates a focus on workforce evolution through:
• Upskilling and Continuous Learning: The rapid pace of technological change requires ongoing upskilling and continuous learning programs to ensure employees remain adaptable and proficient with new technologies. This includes training both IT and Operational Technology (OT) personnel in each other’s domains to bridge skill gaps arising from IT/OT convergence.
• Human-AI Collaboration: The journey toward full industrial AI integration relies on patient advancement, human oversight, and trust in technology. As with self-driving cars, industrial AI will mature alongside human expertise, necessitating “human in the loop” concepts to support risk-based decision-making and ensure greater accuracy and control.
• Improved Employee Experience: Modern workforce management strategies focus on providing greater visibility and control over work schedules through new digital solutions, enhancing work/life balance and employee engagement. This digital transformation also aims to improve productivity and efficiency by providing accessible data and intuitive tools.
While there are challenges such as managing the technological learning curve and ensuring user-friendliness of new applications, the long-term benefits of AI in workforce empowerment are clear: increased productivity, improved operational efficiency, and a more adaptable and engaged workforce ready for the future of manufacturing.
