NVIDIA AI Podcast Safer, Smarter Construction Sites with Edge AI and Caterpillar Autonomous Machines - Ep. 285
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Jan 14, 2026 Brandon Hootman, Vice President of Data and AI at Caterpillar, discusses groundbreaking changes in heavy equipment through AI integration. He explains how digital twins and edge AI enhance safety and efficiency at job sites. The in-cab AI copilot exemplifies user-friendly technology aiding operators. Hootman also highlights Caterpillar's partnership with NVIDIA, utilizing real-time data to revolutionize supply chain management. As he looks to the future, he predicts a workforce augmented by AI and autonomous machines, reshaping industries.
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Digital Twins Unlock Rapid Factory Optimization
- Building digital twins plus real-world data unlocks rapid predictive, preventative, and scheduling optimizations.
- AI lets Caterpillar accelerate transformation without ripping out core systems by simulating and optimizing manufacturing and supply chains.
Cat AI Assistant Demonstrated In Cab
- Caterpillar built a Cat AI assistant to bring company knowledge directly into the cab and coach operators.
- The assistant surfaced machine features and coaching naturally without needing phones or laptops.
Keep In-Cab AI Unobtrusive
- Design in-cab AI to be unobtrusive and focused on helping operators do their job, not add screens.
- Use voice-first interactions and contextual visualizations so operators keep eyes on the work.