Artificial intelligence (AI) is taking the manufacturing industry by storm, boosting efficiency and quality. The use of intelligent systems and automation has streamlined manufacturing processes, making them more cost-effective and error-free. Far from taking jobs away, AI has actually created more high-skilled positions for employees. It’s a game-changer for the industry, ensuring its competitiveness in a rapidly evolving market.
At a recent event hosted by the Idaho Business Review, industry experts discussed the impact of AI in manufacturing. According to Brian Havey, director of sales at VersaBuilt, automation has had a profound impact on the bottom line. Instead of replacing jobs, it has elevated employees and improved their working conditions. Robot operators have replaced manual laborers, allowing workers to move up in the organization.
Jan Roeser, a regional economist at the Idaho Department of Labor, emphasized the continued relevance of human intervention in manufacturing. While automation has made certain jobs obsolete, it has also increased productivity and created opportunities for human ingenuity and innovation. Human intervention is still necessary for quality control and other critical tasks.
Chris Morgan, senior director of R&D at Bastian Solutions, highlighted the role of AI in enabling intelligent decision-making. During the COVID-19 pandemic, companies like Amazon thrived because they relied less on labor and more on AI. By investing human capital intelligently, businesses can grow and allow employees to upskill and advance their careers.
Moving forward, companies will be seeking technicians capable of installing and maintaining AI-equipped equipment. A mix of skills, such as engineering and sales, will be crucial to meet customer needs effectively. Skilled AI developers are also in high demand, but they are difficult to find. Universities can play a role in enhancing the skills of future AI professionals.
The Idaho Department of Labor acknowledges the impact of technology on employment in the state. While manufacturing continues to grow, there is a shortage of labor due to lower fertility rates and the aging population. Automation and AI are seen as essential for sustaining economic growth and evolving jobs rather than eliminating them.
In conclusion, AI is transforming the manufacturing industry for the better. It is boosting efficiency, creating high-skilled positions, and allowing humans to focus on critical tasks. The adoption of AI is necessary for the industry to remain competitive. What are your thoughts on the role of AI in manufacturing? Leave a comment below and join the discussion!
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