What are the technologies and trends fueling manufacturing’s ongoing digital transformation? In a new series MxD explores the landscape, with this article examining the impact artificial intelligence (AI) is having on the manufacturing workforce.
AI’s impact is often seen through the lens of job displacement due to automation. Rapid technological change always affects workers, ManpowerGroup said in a recent report. But, the report added, “the majority of employers worldwide are optimistic that new technology won’t eliminate jobs — but create them.” Nearly 60% of employers globally believe AI and virtual reality (VR) will have a positive impact on hiring, Manpower said.
That trend is visible in manufacturing today, experts note, where as AI is automating many routine tasks, it simultaneously is creating new jobs and reshaping existing roles.
“AI is transforming the manufacturing landscape by serving as a powerful tool for workers, rather than a replacement,” said MxD Learn Curriculum Developer Daniel Griffin. “It’s not about job loss. It’s about job transformation.”
Here’s more on how AI is altering the way workers do their jobs on the factory floor:
What’s happening in U.S. factories right now?
“While roles involving repetitive, manual tasks are declining due to AI and robotics, we’re seeing a surge in exciting new positions,” Griffin said.
AI, he added, is creating collaborative environments, “where technology amplifies human expertise, leading to more efficient processes and allowing employees to focus on higher-value tasks. This shift is driving demand for new skills and creating opportunities for workers to engage in higher-value activities.”
What kinds of new opportunities?
The trend is toward more tech-savvy jobs that focus on problem-solving and innovation, Griffin said.
“The factory of the future is high-tech, and it needs a workforce to match,” he added, “which is why MxD Learn has developed a series of new courses.”
The federally funded Curriculum and Pathways Integrating Technology and Learning (CAPITAL) courses deliver skills, training, and qualifications that open doors to high-demand roles in manufacturing in: Data Annotation; Data Analytics for Manufacturing; Pre-Metaverse (AR/VR) Integration; Cybersecurity Compliance for Supply Chain; and Cybersecurity Analytics for Small to Midsize Manufacturers. The free, virtual, and self-paced classes launch in mid-October on the MxD Virtual Training Center.
Any AI surprises?
“The impact of AI on manufacturing has been eye-opening,” Griffin said. “It’s reshaping jobs across the board, from entry-level to professional roles, and the pace of adoption is staggering.”
With AI investments in manufacturing set to hit $16.7 billion by 2026, according to the World Economic Forum, the industry is evolving faster than many anticipated, he added.
What else is MxD seeing?
On factory floors, AI is revolutionizing data collection and analysis.
“It enables real-time monitoring of equipment performance, predictive maintenance, and optimization of production schedules,” Griffin said. “This wealth of data is helping manufacturers make more informed decisions, improve efficiency, and reduce downtime.”
Plus, he noted, AI’s impact isn’t limited to large manufacturers. Small and mid-sized manufacturers (SMMs) are also adopting AI technologies, often starting with smaller-scale applications in inventory management or quality control.
How do workers in the industry view AI?
The message that “AI will work with humans, not replace them” is gaining traction, but there’s still some apprehension, Griffin said. “ ‘AI Is Coming for Our Jobs,’ makes a great headline, but it is not the reality. Many manufacturers are embracing AI as a collaborative tool, but ongoing education is needed. The CAPITAL courses aim to demystify some of the new technologies available and show how they can enhance rather than threaten jobs.”
One positive trend, he said, is the workforce is largely embracing this change. “Long-term professionals are viewing AI as a tool to enhance their capabilities, not as a threat. This adaptability is huge,” Griffin added.
What are three things manufacturers must know about AI right now?
First, successful AI implementation requires quality data and skilled human oversight, Griffin said. “I’ve mentioned that It’s not about replacing jobs but enhancing them. For example, in predictive maintenance, AI analyzes data, but skilled technicians interpret and act on those insights.”
Second, he said, “Manufacturers should start implementing AI today. I recommend starting with smaller AI projects and scaling up gradually.” An example starting point is using AI for quality control on a single production line before expanding. This approach, he added, minimizes risk and allows for learning.
Third, investing in workforce training is crucial for effective AI adoption. “With the AI skills gap widening,” Griffin said, “upskilling your team is more important than ever. That’s why at MxD, we’re offering these new CAPITAL courses, to help bridge this gap. I really cannot stress this enough: The success of new technology in manufacturing depends on having a workforce ready to leverage it.”
“We’re living through one of the most exciting times in manufacturing history,” Griffin said. “We’re not just talking about a new gadget or two, we’re talking about creating smart factories where everything from the tiniest sensor to the biggest machine is connected and communicating. It’s like giving our entire manufacturing ecosystem a brain and nervous system.”
“But,” he said, “it’s nothing without the people to run it. That’s why at MxD we are so excited about our new courses. We’re here to help you surf this wave rather than get swept away by it.”
For more information on MxD Learn’s CAPITAL courses, visit https://vtc.mxdusa.org or send an email to mxdlearn@mxdusa.org.