制造业的未来：您的问题解答

Cameron:

The manufacturing world is changing fast. Products are getting more complex, customer expectations are constantly shifting, supply chains are morphing, and new technologies are rapidly evolving.

To prepare for these shifts and to stay ahead of the curve, we need strategies that build resilience, boost adaptability, and focus on the technological capabilities that truly move the needle. I mentioned this in the webinar, but cross-industry collaboration is also key. Working together helps us innovate faster and move the industry forward.

There’s also a lot of discourse about technologies like AI, machine learning, and automation, and how they’re going to transform manufacturing. It’s important to remember that to benefit from these tools, we must start at a foundational level and address the underlying data challenge. That means ensuring data hygiene, integration, and KPIs across systems.

Once we lay down that groundwork, we can apply these technologies to tackle bigger challenges like data interoperability, supply chain resiliency, and production efficiency—all of which are critical to advancing the future of manufacturing.

Just as important, is preparing our workforce to leverage these new technologies as a force multiplier to do their jobs more quickly, effectively, and safely. Without a prepared workforce, technology won’t get us anywhere. Truly investing in our people is an imperative for the manufacturing industry.

Cameron:

This is always the elephant in the room when we talk about AI, and I get it. But I firmly believe the answer is no. AI isn’t here to replace people. It’s here to support them. These technologies are designed to make jobs safer, more efficient, and even more fulfilling.

If you look back at history, every major technological shift—from the invention of the steam engine to the introduction of the Internet—has changed how we work rather than eliminating work altogether. Roles evolve, new opportunities emerge, and people adapt. The printing press evolved jobs relating to handwritten texts while revolutionizing the free transfer of knowledge and creating untold opportunities and jobs both directly and indirectly.

AI is no different, and in many ways, its widespread potential promises to be even more transformative.

We’re already seeing new skills and requirements becoming more critical to roles in manufacturing, especially at the intersection where data meets hardware. For example:

• Automation, process, and control engineers: These are the people turning AI-driven insights into fully automated, optimized production lines.
• Mechanical and design engineers: As AI systems demand more power and generate more heat, engineers are needed to design infrastructure that can handle increasingly heavy computing loads.
• Robotics engineers and fleet managers: Logistics companies have created new roles related to managing, training and servicing fleets of cobots who work alongside other humans in distribution warehouses.

Michelle:

We discussed this briefly in the webinar, but in today’s fast-moving world, I always recommend starting with a strong technical foundation. Degrees in mechanical, electrical, or industrial engineering are especially valuable right now. These areas line up directly with some of the biggest needs in manufacturing, like designing physical systems, managing power, optimizing processes, and scaling operations.

That said, you don’t need to be an engineer to build a meaningful career in manufacturing. Roles in supply chain management, business analytics, and operations management are just as critical. Workers in these roles help manage global logistics, drive efficiency, and lead initiatives like Lean and Six Sigma to improve performance across the board.

Plus, I want to emphasize the importance of getting hands-on experience. Whether that’s through an internship, apprenticeship, or entry level role, this is one of the best ways to learn how the manufacturing industry works and where you can make the biggest impact.

Michelle:

Cameron mentioned this in the webinar, but beyond technical skills, we’re really looking for people who are collaborative, have an adaptable mindset, and seek to understand the bigger picture behind what they do.

Manufacturing is a space for problem-solvers, makers, and innovators. It’s always evolving, so we need people who think creatively and are excited to tackle new challenges.

At the end of the day, we hire based on merit, qualifications, and potential. We encourage our candidates to be themselves during the interview process and draw from past experiences that are relevant to the role. At the end of the day, remember that we’re looking for people with the right skills, drive, and vision to grow with us and make an impact.

Cameron:

I think this is a great question. Manufacturing today is so much more than what happens on the factory floor. It’s a rapidly evolving, global industry that challenges us to solve complex problems and shape the future of industry.

If you’re interested in a career that involves strategy, innovation, or technology, there are plenty of opportunities to do so. Whether that’s working on AI-ready data center solutions, design engineering to optimize products for manufacturing or resiliency, navigating global supply chain challenges, driving sustainability across operations, or helping customers bring critical technologies to market, there are so many areas where you can make a difference.

Manufacturing is a highly dynamic space, and if you enjoy working through complex issues and making an impact, there’s a place here for you.