BONUS: 3 Automation and Workforce Trends Impacting Manufacturers in 2025
Dec 31, 2024
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As 2025 approaches, automation trends like autonomous mobile robots and humanoid robots are taking center stage in manufacturing. Discover how AI enhances fault code analysis and aids in preventative maintenance while also supporting traditional jobs. The conversation dives into innovative strategies for attracting and retaining talent amidst labor shortages. Plus, get insights on community engagement and the importance of preserving the knowledge of retiring workers in this evolving landscape.
The rapid adoption of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) is driven by e-commerce demand and labor shortages, projecting 50% growth annually until 2027.
Integrating artificial intelligence for applications like defect detection not only enhances product quality but also helps bridge the knowledge gap created by retiring employees.
Deep dives
Automation Trends Reshaping Manufacturing
The manufacturing sector is witnessing significant growth in automation through trends like autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), humanoid robots, and collaborative robots (cobots). AMRs are rapidly being adopted due to an increasing e-commerce demand and labor shortages, with their market expected to grow at 50% annually until 2027. Humanoids are garnering attention but currently focus on repetitive tasks and face challenges in affordability and uptime, making them less common in operations. Cobots, on the other hand, have demonstrated their value in enhancing workforce capabilities by reducing errors and increasing production speed, as exemplified by their successful integration into the marine exhaust manufacturing process by D'Angelo Marine Exhaust.
Workforce Strategies for Retention and Engagement
Manufacturers can address workforce challenges by integrating automation solutions and fostering strong community ties to boost recruitment and retention. Engaging in local activities, such as sponsoring education initiatives or hosting events, leads to more visibility and an easier time attracting talent. For instance, teaching courses at local technical colleges helps companies identify problem-solvers who may not be the highest achievers academically but possess the persistence necessary for manufacturing roles. Additionally, interacting with high school students about the lucrative careers available in manufacturing establishes a talent ecosystem that encourages new generations to pursue opportunities in the industry.
Harnessing AI for Operational Efficiency
Artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly vital in the manufacturing landscape, with a reported 85% of manufacturers incorporating AI or machine learning in their processes. However, many manufacturers struggle to effectively utilize the vast data they collect, with only 44% reportedly being used effectively. AI is showing promise in applications like defect detection, which improves product quality by identifying defects based on established baselines. By leveraging AI to supplement the knowledge gap created by retiring employees, manufacturers can improve their operations, as AI aids in interpreting fault codes and generating helpful maintenance guidance, ultimately preserving valuable tribal knowledge.
As 2025 gets rolling, there’s no doubt you’re familiar with some of the “buzziest” topics in manufacturing right now…artificial intelligence, humanoid robots, the list goes on!
With all the hype and a renewed focus on onshoring and supply chain, what should manufacturers be focused on in 2025?
While there are more trends than can be fit into a 30-minute podcast episode, today’s episode dives into 3 stats and stories from some of 2024’s best episodes of ManufacturingHappyHour that explore proven automation technologies that are helping manufacturers succeed today, novel ways companies are attracting and retaining talent, and one of the most down-to-earth applications for artificial intelligence on the factory floor.
Plus, you’ll get a preview of what’s coming from Manufacturing Happy Hour – including tours, merch, and more – throughout the new year.
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