AI in Manufacturing

Manufacturers Are Responsibly Developing and Deploying AI to Innovate and Drive Economic Competitiveness

Key Facts

72%
of surveyed manufacturers report reduced costs and improved operational efficiency after deploying AI technology
51%
of surveyed manufacturers report improved operational visibility and responsiveness after deploying AI technology
41%
of surveyed manufacturers report improved process optimization and control after deploying AI technology

Referenced in our new report “Working Smarter: How Manufacturers Are Using Artificial Intelligence,” the figures above were collected from a series of surveys conducted by the NAM’s Manufacturing Leadership Council in 2023, which focused on how manufacturers use AI in their daily operations.

Read the report

Working Smarter: How Manufacturers Are Using Artificial Intelligence

Unlock the power of artificial intelligence in manufacturing with the NAM’s first-of-its-kind report, “Working Smarter: How Manufacturers Are Using Artificial Intelligence.” This report is a vital resource for understanding the transformative role of AI in manufacturing and the strategic insights it offers for industry growth and competitiveness. Join us in navigating the future of manufacturing through the lens of AI.

 VIEW REPORT

How Do Manufacturers Use AI?

  1. 1
    Efficiency: Manufacturers harness AI to streamline processes, optimize production and enhance overall operational efficiency.
  2. 2
    Safety: AI technologies are deployed to proactively identify and mitigate potential safety hazards, ensuring a secure working environment for employees.
  3. 3
    Product Development and Design: AI plays a pivotal role in accelerating product development cycles, enabling innovative design iterations and enhanced product customization.
  4. 4
    Training: AI-driven training modules and simulations empower manufacturers to upskill their workforce and enhance employee performance efficiently.
  5. 5
    Supply Chain: AI integration in supply chain management enhances visibility, efficiency and responsiveness across the entire supply chain ecosystem.
AI gives us the ability to combine digital and physical teams and to help our people by reducing repetitive tasks and physical stress while promoting safety.
— Joel Stenson,
Senior Vice President of Operations Technology, UPS
We see AI as a key strategic enabler for our effectiveness, to do things better, faster and more economically, while delivering essential products to our customers.
— Sreedhar Sistu,
Vice President, AI Offers, Schneider Electric

What Should We Do Now?

Manufacturers are committed to the responsible development and deployment of AI. AI has become critical to modern manufacturing, and AI technologies and capabilities are still evolving quickly; policymakers should therefore foster a policy environment that supports manufacturing growth through AI innovation and adoption.

Further, policymakers should leverage the industry’s expertise throughout the policymaking process. A policy ecosystem that supports innovation and growth in manufacturing AI will bolster U.S. competitiveness and leadership in this critical emerging field.

  1. 1
    Review existing laws before enacting new ones
  2. 2
    AI applications are context-specific; AI regulation should be too
  3. 3
    Right-size the compliance burden
  4. 4
    Maintain U.S. global leadership
  5. 5
    Invest in R&D and workforce pathways
  6. 6
    Protect personal data

Share Your Voice

Manufacturers, by sharing their voices, play a vital role in advocating for responsible AI as a force for good across the industry. By submitting a short story or quote, you’re joining manufacturers helping to shape policies that drive innovation, create jobs and boost supply chain resilience.

Example questions to consider:

  • In your opinion, why is AI considered critical for driving innovation and competitiveness in the manufacturing industry?
  • Can you share examples of how AI has improved efficiency and quality control in your manufacturing operations?
  • What are the key benefits you have experienced by incorporating responsible AI into your manufacturing operations?

“As we think about Manufacturing 4.0 and some of the technologies that I think are essential to making American manufacturing competitive in the long run, I always emphasize that the investments in those tools are not to replace talented human beings; they’re to augment the capability of those talented human beings.”

—Karl Hutter, CEO, Click Bond, Inc.