The rise of Industry 4.0 technology in manufacturing may end up being as impactful to our industry as the industrial revolution, and artificial intelligence (AI) is at the heart of the movement. While tools like robotic arms and autonomous carts are more visible advanced technologies on a shop floor, AI is integrated throughout the production process, gathering and analyzing crucial data and influencing operations. AI helps companies monitor equipment and perform predictive maintenance to reduce downtime, track inventory, demand, and logistics needs to support the supply chain, improve the efficiency and accuracy of production processes, and even simplify the process of adopting other advanced technologies by enhancing interoperability.
AI’s ability to gather and process data and initiate responsive action is streamlining work and helping large and small manufacturers adapt to increasing demand and workforce challenges. AI tools are more accessible than ever, and a recent State of AI in Manufacturing survey reported that 77% of manufacturers had already adopted some form of AI, and 82% planned to increase their budgets for AI technologies over the next 12-18 months. Manufacturers and professionals must prepare to work and compete in an increasingly AI-powered industry, and access to upskilling and reskilling programs is crucial to securing their futures.
Recent studies have shown that integrating AI can have positive effects on both workers and companies, but employers and employees alike must plan for a successful integration. Widespread AI adoption may accelerate or expand existing skills gaps occurring in various manufacturing sectors. A Manufacturing Institute survey revealed that roughly 65% of company leaders agreed that filling vacancies is difficult because of the evolving skills and competencies necessary for the job, and 82% were seeking new ways to invest in their employees’ careers. The message is clear—as technology advances, our industry will move beyond the days where a certain hard skill or certification will guarantee success. The manufacturing workforce—and companies—that grow and thrive today and tomorrow will be adaptable and flexible enough to pivot along with our changing technology. Manufacturing organizations and stakeholders must provide comprehensive programs to support these companies, especially the small and midsize businesses that often have limited resources yet comprise the majority of manufacturing employers in the US. To maximize their impact, these programs should:
Prioritize Learning: Professionals need access to quality continuous education opportunities that help them stay abreast of the developments in their sectors. Companies need strong training programs that upskill employees as AI changes manufacturing processes, especially in cases where the need for human work is reduced. One survey indicated that more than 60% of manufacturers planned to expand or augment their internal training programs in the near future to tackle skills gaps that are growing as technology impacts roles and responsibilities. Establishing a learning-focused culture will ensure companies and workforces have the resources necessary to stay ahead of the curve as AI influences more manufacturing processes.
Explore Adaptive Skills: Some specific technical skills will always be in demand in the manufacturing industry, and a foundational knowledge of AI-enabled technologies will be useful to manufacturing professionals in a range of sectors. However, adaptive skills are the latest trend to ensure future-ready workforces. The ability to learn quickly, analyze information, use creative reasoning, apply systems thinking, and leverage social and emotional intelligence will be beneficial no matter how AI impacts operations. Training and reskilling programs must focus on developing these “softer” skills in a variety of contexts, and must help companies develop similarly adaptive cultures where employees and teams are empowered to problem solve and apply new skills to real-life scenarios. A combination of cutting-edge training and workplace culture insights can give professionals in-demand competencies, promote recruitment and retention among manufacturers, and spur innovation across the industry.
Center Technology: Technology must be a focal point for upskilling and reskilling programs industry wide. The growth in technology adoption means that, even if an organization or role does not require a high level of technical knowledge today, tomorrow’s process or job could look very different. Integrating AI adds another layer of complexity by vastly expanding capabilities, generating significant data, and, as a result, modifying the skills needed to sustain operations at every level. As more machines and processes leverage AI, a basic understanding of how these new technologies work, what information they collect, how to store and protect critical data, and other capabilities will be fundamental to manufacturing professionals’ success. Keeping technology at the forefront of every program promotes continuous improvement within companies, identifies key trends that may impact specific jobs and sectors, and helps professionals understand their work in the context of a larger, ever-evolving industry.
Inspire Further Innovation: AI’s flexibility in creating solutions and enhancing work can be tailored to a company or process’s unique needs, and training programs must encourage professionals to explore its vast possibilities and how it supports further technology integration. For example, AI tools can identify inefficiencies in current processes that new technologies may address. AI-enabled digital twin modeling can demonstrate the potential impact of a new technology before it is physically incorporated into a production environment. Finally, using machine learning and other capabilities, AI can translate data between systems and promote interoperability, streamlining previously disparate processes and ultimately making it easier for organizations to adopt new technologies.
AI brings myriad opportunities to the table for manufacturers and professionals, but comprehensive support and training is necessary to promote successful integration. Giving manufacturing professionals the skills they need to excel in AI-driven environments will ensure they continue to see manufacturing as a viable career path with significant growth potential. Helping companies create adaptable and learning-focused cultures will further mitigate workforce challenges and provide opportunities for professionals to develop new skills, innovate, and enhance operations. Stakeholder organizations like MMTC (www.the-center.org) are committed to continuing Michigan’s manufacturing legacy and supporting the professionals and companies driving our industry forward. Together, we can embrace AI and Industry 4.0 technology to promote manufacturing growth and stability, improve the quality and safety of manufacturing jobs, and enhance our processes and outputs.
Read this article and more insight on AI in the manufacturing industry within our 2025 Integr8 Playbook, "Boosting Productivity in the AI Frontier."
