News

New Report Looks at Workforce Changes as AI and Automation Advance

The National Association of Manufacturers (GMIC is a member through the Council of Manufacturing Associations) has released its latest Manufacturing Trends report, highlighting how artificial intelligence and automation are impacting the manufacturing workforce. Highlights include building agile, intelligent, and sustainable operations through technological advancements and strategic investments.:

Propelling Autonomous and Adaptive Smart Operations

• Manufacturers are moving towards operations that require minimal human intervention, utilizing machine learning for production control and optimization.
• The shift is from reactive to predictive and adaptive systems, enhancing uptime and reducing scrap through improved process controls.
• Companies that invest in workforce readiness are seeing faster returns on autonomy, with operators focusing on managing exceptions rather than manual tasks.

Embedding Sustainability into Business Strategy

• Sustainability is becoming integral to manufacturers’ financial models, driven by regulatory requirements, customer expectations, and cost advantages.
• Companies are embedding sustainability in product lifecycles, using digital tools for emissions tracking and resource efficiency.
• Treating sustainability as a strategic investment leads to improved profitability and brand perception.

Reinforcing Cyber Resilience and Connectivity

• The rise of digital systems in manufacturing has increased the need for robust cybersecurity measures.
• Manufacturers are adopting zero-trust models and cloud-based platforms to enhance security and reduce vulnerabilities.
• Continuous workforce training is essential to mitigate risks from human error, with a focus on supply chain cybersecurity.

Building Resilient and Transparent Supply Networks

• Manufacturers are transitioning to proactive supply chain resilience, utilizing real-time data and predictive modeling.
• Regionalizing supply chains and expanding multi-sourcing strategies help mitigate geopolitical risks.
• Digital traceability tools are essential for compliance and improving operational transparency.

Accelerating Innovation Through Human–AI Collaboration

• The integration of AI and digital tools is accelerating product development and enhancing decision-making.
• Human oversight remains crucial, with teams leveraging AI for analysis while retaining final decision-making authority.
• Continuous innovation is fostered by embedding AI into daily workflows across the organization.

Positioning Data as Industrial Capital

• Data is now viewed as a strategic asset, with manufacturers building unified data architectures for better analysis.
• Companies are forming data stewardship teams to ensure quality and traceability in analytics projects.
• Well-governed data systems enhance operational decisions and accelerate digital transformation.

Prioritizing Energy Procurement and Transformation

• Energy strategy is now a collaborative effort involving finance, operations, and sustainability leaders.
• Manufacturers are integrating renewables and using analytics for energy management to stabilize costs and ensure supply reliability.
• Energy management is shifting from cost control to a driver of resilience and growth.

Rethinking Organizational Structure for Digital Future

• Digital transformation is reshaping workforce needs and organizational design, requiring new skills and roles.
• Cross-functional teams are becoming standard for technology projects, emphasizing digital literacy and data interpretation.
• Companies that foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptability will have a competitive advantage.