Artificial intelligence is quite a hot topic these days. AI is transforming industries across the globe, and manufacturing is no exception!
For today’s machine shops, AI has the potential to increase production and improve manufacturing efficiency. But the question remains: is AI a friend or a foe? While some embrace it wholeheartedly, others remain skeptical about just how impactful it can be in our industry.
Let’s dive into how AI is shaping the manufacturing industry and how you can leverage it to your advantage.
AI in Manufacturing: Why It Matters
AI is part of our daily lives, whether it’s powering your email’s spam filter or spell-checking your written work. And, though it’s appeared in more and more headlines as of late, AI isn’t just a passing trend. It’s a tool that, when used correctly, can significantly improve manufacturing processes and help businesses achieve greater profitability.
What’s more, manufacturers have caught on to AI’s impact and influence. At our ENGAGE 2024 conference, our breakout session on AI was a packed house, with AI enthusiasts and skeptics alike coming together to learn how AI can impact their operations and improve their outcomes. (Spoiler alert for ENGAGE 2025: Due to popular demand, we have a feeling another AI session is in the works.)
Common Concerns about AI in Manufacturing
Before we sing praises about this technical advancement, it’s certainly worth discussing why AI skeptics are hesitant to adopt it.
Job Security
A major concern across all industries is the fear that AI will replace human jobs. While it’s certainly true that AI has the ability to take over repetitive or manual tasks, the goal isn’t to replace workers but to enhance their roles. AI can free up employees to focus on more complex, creative, and value-added work that machines can’t replicate… and won’t, at least for the foreseeable future.
“If It Ain’t Broke, Don’t Fix It”
Some shop owners feel that their current processes are already effective, so what’s the point of adding AI into the equation? It’s important to remember that AI is less about fixing what’s broken and more about optimizing what works, whether it’s enhancing machining safety or improving overall productivity.
The Benefits of AI in Manufacturing
When used strategically, AI can be a game-changer for machine shop management. Here’s how:
Saving Time and Increasing Efficiency
Benjamin Franklin wasn’t exaggerating when he said that time is money. Time is a precious resource in any business, and ours is no exception. AI can automate time-consuming tasks like scheduling, data entry, and emailing, such as scheduling drip campaigns, allowing employees to focus on more critical activities.
For instance, many NTMA members have started using AI for predictive and preventative maintenance. By analyzing machine performance data, AI can help you avoid costly breakdowns and keep production running smoothly.
Enhancing Communication
Not every shop owner or machinist is a natural communicator—and that’s okay! AI tools like ChatGPT can help craft job descriptions or write out procedures that are clear and comprehensive in just a fraction of the time it would take you to write it out yourself.
Supporting Decision-Making
AI doesn’t just save time; it can also provide valuable insights. By analyzing data from your shop floor, AI can uncover trends and patterns specific to your equipment and processes. These tailored insights can help you identify ways to maximize efficiency and productivity based on your business’s unique priorities.
How to Get Started with AI in Your Shop
If you’re new to AI, here are some tips to help you get the ball rolling:
Stay Open-Minded
Skepticism is natural, but AI is here to stay. Be open to exploring how it can benefit your business. If you’re unsure, connect with peers in your manufacturing network to learn how other shops are leveraging AI.
Research and Experiment
Before diving head-first, start small by identifying areas in your shop where AI could make a difference. For example, explore machine tool resources that offer AI-powered maintenance tools or try an AI tool to assist with scheduling. Or, even more simply, play around with ChatGPT to see what it’s capable of.
Balance Human Oversight with AI
Remember, AI is a tool, not a replacement for human expertise. If you’re using AI for CNC programming, for example, always have an experienced programmer proof the code to avoid costly errors!
How NTMA’s Community Can Support Your AI Initiatives
For machine shop owners who want to stay ahead, be sure to leverage NTMA’s manufacturing network. With industry experts from coast to coast, many of whom are early adopters of AI, NTMA can provide you with machine shop resources that simplify and streamline your AI adoption.
The future of AI in manufacturing is bright, and our vibrant community is happy to offer insights that can help you work smarter—not harder!
Not a member yet? What are you waiting for?! Join NTMA to tap into our forward-thinking network!