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Explore NCNGM Leadership insights. Join our education community of practice to enhance your leadership skills with NCNGM resources. National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing Leadership Dedicated to the dissemination of educational resources for workforce pathways for the manufacturing industry. Dr. Karen Wosczyna-Birch Executive Director & Principal Investigator Dr. Karen Wosczyna-Birch has been a champion of engineering and technology education for over 30 years. Since 1995, she has been the State Director of the CT College of Technology (COT) where her leadership has been instrumental in creating nationally recognized seamless pathway programs in engineering and technology between all 12 Connecticut public community colleges (now merged to CT State Community College) with 10 universities and technical and comprehensive high schools. She is also the Executive Director and Principal Investigator of the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing (NCNGM), a National Science Foundation (NSF) Center of Excellence and a professor emeritus in Applied Technology at Connecticut State Community College Tunxis. She has received over $30M in funding from the NSF, including two grants for international partnerships. Karen has implemented strategies resulting in an increase in the enrollment of underrepresented populations in STEM programs at the community colleges. Karen has received numerous awards for her accomplishments as a professor and for her passion for increasing the diversity of the STEM population including the 2016 Distinguished Service Award from the international honor society Epsilon Pi Tau (EPT), the 2018 CT Women of Innovation Award in the Postsecondary Academic Innovation & Leadership Category, the 2012 New England Board of Higher Education Excellence Award for the State of CT and most recently, the 2020 HI TEC Innovative Program of the Year Award and the 2021 ITEEA Special Recognition Award. In 2014, she was invited to the White House College Opportunity Summit recognizing leaders like Karen for their commitment to STEM education. She also serves on numerous local and national boards including the Epsilon Pi Tau Honor Society, Hartford High's Pathway for Engineering and Green Technology, and the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System. Ann Beheler Industry Engagement Director Dr. Ann Beheler is the Industry Engagement Director who strategically leads the Business Industry Leadership Team (BILT) high employer engagement model she developed for the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing. She has taught hundreds of colleges and universities to implement the model to deepen their employer relationships and align curriculum. Additionally, due to her work with Miami Dade College and the National Applied Artificial Intelligence Consortium, she is uniquely positioned to lead upcoming industry-led work for integrating AI into Manufacturing programs. Over the past several years, she has dedicated herself to helping educators to better align undergraduate education in technical fields to the future knowledge, skill, and ability needs of business and industry through the BILT process she originated. This work has resulted in a much wider pipeline of well-qualified job candidates and increasing business engagement with higher education programs overall. She is known for successfully connecting employers and educators, as evidenced by her receiving the “2020 Future 50” award from Dallas Innovates, an online news source that provides information about DFW startups, enterprise, education, invention, creatives, technology, and social innovators. Dr. Beheler has split her career between corporate leadership in various college leadership roles, passionately working to help others to achieve learning that launches their careers in numerous discipline areas. Dr. Beheler works primarily with emerging programs for several major grant programs and individual colleges to ensure that business and industry subject matter experts co-lead all work so that the students who graduate from these programs gain profitable long-term careers. She was Director of Certification Testing and Training at Novell, Director of Product Development at Raytheon, and Project Manager for the first distributed system pilot project in IT for Rockwell International. Additionally, she has been an instructor, a dean, and a Vice President for Academic Affairs. Jeremy Banta Associate Professor of Supply Chain Management Jeremy Banta is a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel with over 30 years’ experience in civilian and military logistics. He is currently an Associate Professor and Coordinator of the Supply Chain Management Program at Columbus State Community College in Columbus Ohio. His military career includes 15 years full time service in the Ohio National Guard as a senior logistician with deployments to Iraq and Kuwait. He serves the logistics industry by serving on multiple local school and organizational advisory boards, as well as being the co-founder of the Ohio Supply Chain Academic Network (O-SCAN), a member of Columbus Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Chair of the Columbus Region Logistics Council (CRLC), a Director-At-Large for the Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) Advisory Council and a member of the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) Academic Strategies Committee. Tim Baber Department Chair for Welding and Advanced Manufacturing Technology Experienced professor and department chair at College of the Canyons, California, with a demonstrated history of working in higher education. Skilled in Instructional Design, Public Speaking, Curriculum Development, Metal Fabrication, and Manufacturing. Works to create effective partnerships with local and national businesses and educational institutions. Extensive experience in development of welding programs that include welder training, welding procedure specification development, and welder certification credentialing. John Birch Consultant John is a Certified Professional Behaviors Analyst (CPBA), Certified Professional Motivators Analyst (CPMA), TriMetrix® certified, and a Certified Professional Emotional Quotient Analyst (CPEQA). These certifications, awarded by TTI Success Insights on behalf of Target Training International, Ltd., recognize training, education, and practical application of the history of behavioral models, including the DISC model, and behavioral knowledge based on validated, research-based instruments. They also recognize knowledge of the history of motivators as developed by Eduard Spranger and TTI and the six hierarchies of human motivation and how they relate to communicating in the workplace and beyond. As a CPEQA, John is certified to teach the five dimensions of emotional intelligence, including emotional enablers and disablers as well as to interpret emotional quotient in people and analyze and integrate the combination of Behaviors and Motivators with Emotional Intelligence. Wendy Robicheau Assistant Director Wendy is the Assistant Director for the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing, funded by the National Science Foundation Advanced Technological Education Program. She began working on NSF ATE grants for the Connecticut State Colleges & Universities System in 2012. Her work on these grants has grown her passion for making students, parents, educators and counselors aware of the educational and career pathways that are possible in STEM fields with an emphasis on advanced manufacturing. Her focus is on students from populations that are typically underrepresented in STEM fields, including females. Her favorite activities are those highlighting the accomplishments of our students and those that provide them with experiences that enhance there coursework. She has organized and participated in numerous local, national, and international initiatives over the years where she has both shared and learned about addressing STEM workforce needs and has also published and presented papers for these conferences. Wendy has her Master’s Degree in Student Development in Higher Education from Central Connecticut State University and is a member of the Steering Committee for the American. Chris Dennis Assistant Professor of Engineering Technology Experienced Supply Chain Management with a demonstrated history of working in the higher education industry. Skilled in Negotiation, Continuous Improvement, Kaizen, Supply Management, and Product Development. Strong education professional with AAS, BS, and MBA Degrees. Affiliated with Columbus State Community College in Ohio. Jerry Muller Industrial Technology Coordinator and Trainer Muller is an industrial technology coordinator and trainer based at Central Community College, Nebraska, Columbus Campus but provides training throughout all of Central Community College’s service area. Muller was instrumental in developing and launching the Tyson Meats training program in Lexington, which required adapting the curriculum, remodeling facilities and buying equipment to meet the company’s training needs. He also has a lead role in the iMec 2.0 grant from the National Science Foundation that will bring mechatronics education to six high schools in the Central Community College service area. At Central Community College, he has helped repair injection molding units for the plastics program, hook up robotic welders in the welding lab, and teach an introductory mechatronics and instrumentation class for high school teachers and administrators. He reached out to several vendors and received free or reduced costs on several pieces of equipment for the college. Muller is Dodge High School graduate who earned an electromechanical degree at Southeast Community College in Milford. Prior to Central Community College, he was employed at Cargill in Schuyler for nine years where he started out on the maintenance team and finished as a lead automation technician. Matt Mervis Director of Skills21 & AI Strategy at EdAdvance Matt Mervis is a senior nonprofit team leader based in Litchfield, Connecticut, who enables immersive project-based learning and AI. Matt has deep experience in education, having served in various roles as a teacher, professional development specialist, district technology director, and product developer. Matt is currently building AI/PBL product integration on the Skills21 platform and presents frequently on AI and the future of education. He is also a co-host of the AI in Education Podcast ChatEDU, sponsored by the NCNGM. Marco Taverner Community Engagement Coordinator Marco's role as Community Engagement Coordinator with the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing involves fostering career pathways from community colleges to the manufacturing industry. As a Social Media Consultant, he began working on the team in early 2024. His professional journey is a commitment to effective outreach for advanced manufacturing initiatives and pathways for community college students to enter the nation's workforce. He is utilizing a strategic approach to social media to amplify NCNGM’s mission and connect with stakeholders. He has prior experience in higher education outreach at Central Connecticut State University’s LGBT Center. He has been an advocate for other underrepresented demographics as well, including the disabled and the Hispanic/Latinx communities. Marco is continuing his education at Connecticut State Community College and immerses himself in the community college process’ and pathways to success. He also has experience utilizing his skills for networking and outreach at conferences and summits. With a fresh perspective on manufacturing education and industry pathways, Marco is eager to continue the center’s efforts to disseminate and celebrate the potential for a diverse and equitable workforce.

Discover how nextgen manufacturing is revolutionizing education and workforce development with industry-leading initiatives. The National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing National Science Foundation Funding Our National Science Foundation Advanced Technological Education (NSF ATE) funding began in 2004 with a grant to create the Regional Center for Next Generation Manufacturing (RCNGM) in Connecticut through the Connecticut College of Technology . Two additional rounds of funding were awarded to expand the RCNGM in New England. In 2019, a final round of funding was awarded to transition the RCNGM into the Resource Center for Next Generation Manufacturing. In 2021, funding was awarded to the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing (NCNGM). The NCNGM builds on the proven strategies, resources, and accomplishments of the RCNGM as well as those of the national partners that are a part of the Center. National Science Foundation Advanced Technological Education Program For over 30 years the National Science Foundation Advanced Technological Education Program (NSF ATE) has supported partnerships between two-year institutions of higher education, other academic institutions, industry and other entities to improve the education of technicians in science and engineering. Focused on technician education with leadership from community college faculty, the NSF ATE program funds projects that include curriculum development; professional development of college faculty and secondary school teachers; career pathway development for both students and incumbent workers; and other activities, including applied research projects that advance the knowledge base related to technician education. You can learn more about the NSF ATE program through ATE Central , the ATE Impacts Book , and the annual Evalu-ATE Survey of ATE projects and centers . The National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing leadership partners represent these institutions and technical teams: Mechatronics, Welding, Supply Chain Management, Advanced Manufacturing: Various, and AI Professional development for primary, secondary, and post-secondary education. From Regional to National Central Community College, Nebraska College of the Canyons, California Columbus State Community College, Ohio Connecticut State Community College, Connecticut EdAdvance, Connecticut Miami Dade College, Florida MISSION To cultivate and nurture relationships among new partners in collaboration with high school, community college, and university educators, industry, government agencies, ATE Centers, next generation manufacturing projects, and other stakeholders interested in further development to create a diverse technical workforce and a larger pool for National Science Foundation projects and programs. GOAL ONE Enhance and solidify relationships and communication among educators, businesses, industry, government, military, trade associations, and economic development agencies to broaden and strengthen efforts to prepare qualified technicians for the various NGM careers. GOAL TWO Coordinate, create, and support the implementation of a Next Generation Manufacturing education repository for educators, industry, and the workforce education system that integrates industry-driven competencies needed to support Industry 4.0 and emerging technologies, including using Open Educational Resources (OER) and online methodologies. GOAL THREE Coordinate, create, and support the implementation of professional development opportunities for educators using promising practices gleaned from ATE projects, centers, and national stakeholders to address current and future NGM technology competencies. GOAL FOUR Coordinate and promote careers in Next Generation Manufacturing through a national network that includes community colleges, ATE Centers and projects, and national organizations to support a diverse technician workforce through regional outreach, recruitment, mentoring, and dissemination initiatives across NGM technician education programs. National Science Foundation funded National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing Lets Work Together First Name Last Name Email Message Thanks for submitting! Send

NCNGM cultivates relationships among educators, industry, and government to develop a diverse technical workforce. Join NCNGM for next-gen manufacturing. Why Advanced Manufacturing? Higher Income, High Demand Secure Job Growth Innovating & Collaborative Clean & Safe Environments Affordable Career Pathway Learn More National Applied AI Consortium Summit 2026 Explore more National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing News NCNGM Representatives Attend the Rockwell Automation Fair Douglas Pauley, former Associate Dean of Community and Workforce Education at Central Community College in Nebraska, recently had the opportunity to attend the annual Rockwell Automation Fair. This event highlights the advancements in digital transformation and industrial automation, showcasing Rockwell Automation as a leader in these fields. Rockwell Automation is renowned for its commitment to providing comprehensive resources tailored for an array of stakeholders within t 3 days ago 2 min read 1 2 3 4 5 Manufacturing events across the nation What's Happening? Women in Manufacturing Education Foundation's Virtual Learning Series Tue, Dec 09 Virtual Learning Series RSVP ACTE CAREERTECH VISION Tue, Dec 09 Nashville RSVP WiM Connecticut for Holiday Happenings at Lyman Orchards Wed, Dec 10 Middlefield RSVP Multiple Dates Chat EDU Podcast at Skills 21 by Edadvance Fri, Dec 12 Podcast Learn more Manufacturing Celebration of Innovation Thu, Jan 08 Hartford RSVP Conference for Industry and Education Collaboration (CIEC) Mon, Feb 02 New Orleans RSVP Load More Leadership Partners For a comprehensive list of our partners and collaborators click HERE

Explore the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing Summit 2025 Gallery. Access presentations from Day 1, Day 2, and Day 3 now! National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing Summit 2025 Hosted by FANUC America Corporation in partnership with the National Coalition of Advanced Technology Centers Overview of Summit Activities Attendees were able to participate in facility tours, networking opportunities, hand-on sessions and listened to many organizations initiatives. Our robust agenda is available via pdf for your reference. Download PDF Guest Presenters Matt Kirchner, Dr. Karen Wosczyna-Birch, Joe Baldiga, Tony Nighswander, Claude Dinsmoor, Paul Aiello, Drew “The MFG” Crowe, Tim Baber, Jerry Muller, Chris Dennis, Eric Flynn, Paul Lavoie, Dr. Suj Chandrasekhar, Dr. Ann Beheler, Dayonte Grimes, Carver Middleton, Michael Cook, Richard Polanin, Mark Kappes, Jake Gorden, Debra Basso, Katie Austin, Nivedhitha (Neethu) Giri, Jessica Juhasz, John Wheeler, Mark Kappes, and Mike Sauter. Supporting Organizations ACCUFACTURE LLC, APT Manufacturing Solutions, American Welding Society, CORD (Center for Occupational Research & Development), DeafTEC, FANUC Education Solution Providers, Fronius USA, Levil Technology, Lincoln Electric Automation, Michigan Department of Corrections, National Coalition of Advanced Technology Centers (NCATC), National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement, National Technical Institute for the Deaf, National Science Foundation, Miller Electric Mfg. LLC, NOCTI, OTTO by Rockwell Automation, Rockwell Automation, Rochester Institute of Technology, Weld-Ed “Listen, Understand and share!- Thank you to Next Gen Manufacturing, NSF and FANUC for hosting such a thoughtful event focused on building the best most capable workforce in advanced manufacturing. It was humbling to be amongst such dedicated and smart people making a big difference for us all!" Michael Cook, Rockwell Automation Presentations ***Please note that the presentations are the intellectual property of their presenters and should not be redistributed without permission and credit*** Day 1 Matt Kirchner – Keynote Speaker; Host of TechEd Podcast Dr. Karen Wosczyna-Birch – Executive Director, National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing Joe Baldiga – National Education Program Manager, FANUC America Tony Nighswander – President, APT Manufacturing Solutions Claude Dinsmoor – FANUC America Artificial Intelligence Paul Aiello – FANUC America Emerging Technologies Presentation Drew “The MFG” Crowe – Founder, Manufacturing Renaissance & Youth Advocate Tim Baber, Full-Time Professor, Department Chair of Welding Technology, College of the Canyons, and Co-Principal Investigator NCNGM Jerry Muller, Industrial Technology Coordinator and Trainer, Central Community College, and Co-Principal Investigator NCNGM Chris Dennis, Assistant Professor, Supply Chain Management, Columbus State Community College, and co-Principal Investigator NCNGM Eric Flynn, Professor at Connecticut State Community College, Faculty Technical Lead of MET², and Co-Principal Investigator of CICSTART. Day 2 Paul Lavoie Co-Keynote – Former CT Chief Manufacturing Officer and Current VP of Innovation and Applied Technology at University of New Haven, CT. Dr. Suj Chandrasekhar Co-Keynote – Founder, Strategic Insights (Leveraging AI Platforms) Dr. Ann Beheler – NCNGM Leadership & BILT - Employer-led Community College Programs w/ Emphasis on AI in Manufacturing Dayonte Grimes – Lapeer High School Instructor, Michigan Carver Middleton - Mississippi State AiM-Up Program Rockwell Automation Michael Cook, Director Industry-Academia Engagement. AWS American Welding Joe Young, Associate Director of the AWS Foundation. Weld-ED Richard Polanin, Co-Principal Investigator for Weld-Ed, the National Center for Welding Education and Training & Tim Baber Day 3 Drew “The MFG” Crowe, Founder, Manufacturing Renaissance & Youth Advocate Fair Chance Hiring & Second Chance Employment Panel - Drew Crowe, Mark Kappes, Gateway Technical College Women in Robotics - Panel Discussion - Debra Basso, Director R&D Product Information and Development Systems at FANUC America Corporation; Katie Austin, Applications Engineer, General Industries and Automotive FANUC America Corporation; Nivedhitha (Neethu) Giri Engineering Leader in Robotics R&D and Industrial Automation; Jessica Juhasz, Engineering Manager FANUC America Corporation The Uniquely Abled Project John Wheeler, Mark Kappes – Gateway Technical College STEM Accessibility Initiatives - Mike Sauter, Adjunct faculty at National Institute for the Deaf (NTID), DeafTEC, Project Good to Go, and Accessibility Expert for AccessATE. APT Manufacturing FANUC Education Solution Providers Fronius Levil Technology Lincoln Electric National Institute of Industry and Career Advancement (NiiCA) National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) Miller Welding Access Our Gallery

Discover why a career in advanced manufacturing is rewarding. Learn the benefits and opportunities in advanced manufacturing today! Why Choose a Career in Advanced Manufacturing? It’s now a dynamic field full of opportunity and innovation that promises a career path and job security. Today’s facilities are safe, well-lit, ventilated, and high-tech . Completing a certificate or a degree from an advanced manufacturing program at a community college is the first step to a rewarding career in manufacturing. Did You Know? There are more than 13 million manufacturing employees in the United States in 2023. By 2033, 3.8 million manufacturing jobs will likely be needed. Manufacturing workers in the US earned $98,846 on average, including pay and benefits, in 2023. Resource: National Association of Manufacturers’ Manufacturing Institute AI in MFG AI in MFG AI in MFG AI in MFG What's Happening? December 2025 Today Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 30 1 2 3 4 5 12:00 PM Chat EDU Podcast at Skills 21 by Edadvance +1 more 6 7 8 9 Day (1/4) ACTE CAREERTECH VISION +1 more +2 more 10 Day (2/4) ACTE CAREERTECH VISION +1 more +2 more 11 Day (3/4) ACTE CAREERTECH VISION +1 more 12 Day (4/4) ACTE CAREERTECH VISION +1 more +2 more 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 12:00 PM Chat EDU Podcast at Skills 21 by Edadvance +1 more 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 12:00 PM Chat EDU Podcast at Skills 21 by Edadvance +1 more 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 12:00 PM Chat EDU Podcast at Skills 21 by Edadvance +1 more 3 4 5 6 7 8 4:00 PM Manufacturing Celebration of Innovation +1 more 9 10

AI in Manufacturing The following resources are for all stakeholders to explore what the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing can offer you. This includes links to AI literacy, Industrial AI, Cybersecurity, and other emerging technologies! AI Literacy Resources for educators on Artificial Intelligence Literacy and what that means for education for all levels of education. AI Curriculum Resources Details on Artificial Intelligence, including AI literacy, industrial AI uses, and curriculum development. (Coming Soon) Industry 5.0 Defining Industry 5.0, its relationship to AI in manufacturing, and refining pre-existing ideas from Industry 4.0. AI Informational Videos Informational videos on different aspects and kinds of AI. AI in MFG Resources Many major players in industry are investing in AI, but understand the gap in learning. These articles provide insight to the state of Artificial Intelligence in the Manufacturing sector. NCNGM AI Initiatives NCNGM AI initiatives and partnerships. Partners & Collaborators Visit Partners & Collaborators for Additional Resources

Industry and Resources The following resources are for industry and stakeholders to explore what the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing can offer you. This includes links to resource pages for industry, government agencies, non profits, and more! Become an NCNGM Collaborator Contact the NCNGM Team to become an industry collaborator. Technician Education Technological Resources Browse our industry specifications for technician education in different advanced manufacturing disciplines. Become a BILT Member Join our Business and Industry Leadership Team to keep advanced manufacturing knowledge skills and abilities (KSA) up to date. Industry 5.0 Learn about emerging technologies such as the distinction between Industry 5.0 and 4.0, cybersecurity, and more. Join Our Community of Practice Join our Community of Practice to connect with other stakeholders including but not limited to: Academia, Industry, and Government agencies. AI in Manufacturing Explore our upcoming AI Initiatives and resources. Partners & Collaborators Visit Partners & Collaborators for Additional Resources

Students and Parents The following resources are for students and parents to explore what the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing can offer you. This includes links to resource pages for high school students, prospective community college students, and more! Student Success Stories Video profiles of Success Stories by past students in advanced manufacturing technician education. Scholarships Comprehensive list of scholarships available. Click the link descriptions for deadlines. Career Descriptions & Opportunities Explore career pathways, resources, and descriptions on this informative page. Podcast Recommendations NCNGM recommended podcasts. Including the NCNGM sponsored podcast ChatEDU, and AI in Education podcast hosted by Skills21 at EdAdvance. Experience Manufacturing Experience Manufacturing through nationwide initiatives including but not limited to MFG Day by the National Association of Manufacturers. Advanced Manufacturing Education Browse advanced manufacturing initiatives to help your journey in technician education, whether you are pursuing a certificate, stackable credentials, associates or 4 year degree or beyond. Partners & Collaborators Visit Partners & Collaborators for Additional Resources

Educators and Counselors The following resources are for educators and counselors to explore what the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing can offer you. This includes links to resource pages for faculty, academic counselors in high school or higher education, and more! Professional Development Opportunities Learn and apply to our web-based or in-person workshops in partnership with community colleges across the nation. Curriculum Development Resources and Materials Repository of curriculum development resources and files. These materials are provided with the permission of their authors and should be credited if used elsewhere. Virtual Workshops Learn and apply to nationwide virtual workshops and professional development. (Coming Soon) Grant Funding and Mentorship NCNGM offers funding through our grant and mentorship opportunities with subject matter experts in the academic sector. NCNGM Webinars View our archive of past webinars. Sign up to be a member on our site to gain exclusive early access to our more recent webinars, recordings and materials. Career Resources for Your Students Refer your students to our Student & Parents page for more information. Partners & Collaborators Visit Partners & Collaborators for Additional Resources

Explore AI Articles and Literature to deepen your understanding of AI in manufacturing. Join our education community for insightful resources. AI Articles and Literature The American Mural Project Winning the Race AMERICA’S AI ACTION PLAN “Today, a new frontier of scientific discovery lies before us, defined by transformative technologies such as artificial intelligence… Breakthroughs in these fields have the potential to reshape the global balance of power, spark entirely new industries, and revolutionize the way we live and work. As our global competitors race to exploit these technologies, it is a national security imperative for the United States to achieve and maintain unquestioned and unchallenged global technological dominance. To secure our future, we must harness the full power of American innovation.” Donald J. Trump 45th and 47th President of the United States https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Americas-AI-Action-Plan.pdf Generative AI’s Transformative Impact on Manufacturing: Unleashing the Power of Industrial Data Some would say that ChatGPT unleashed the iPhone moment for digital transformation. Arguably, it is generative AI that will unleash the transformation of industry. But while generative AI may be a bullet train that has left the station, to harness it properly, it must be safe, secure and hallucination-free. The business value of generative AI is only in its application to the real-world needs of field engineers and others operating in asset-heavy industries. When used correctly, generative AI can enable better collaboration, task automation, field productivity, maintenance planning and robotic automation, but the technology is only as strong as its data foundation. https://www.machinedesign.com/automation-iiot/article/21277722/cognite-generative-ais-transformative-impact-on-manufacturing-unleashing-the-power-of-industrial-data Improving worker optimization on the factory floor with artificial intelligence Artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced analytics can be used to make workers better and more productive in their jobs. Manufacturers are dealing with a skills gap, which is exacerbated by a training gap. Getting new workers up to speed quickly is a difficult process. AI can gather information about the training processes and tailor that information to help specific workers for their jobs. https://www.plantengineering.com/improving-worker-optimization-on-the-factory-floor-with-artificial-intelligence/ Manufacturing’s Skilled Labor Gap: How AI Is Transforming the Industry The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) is being felt in nearly every industry, and front-line industrial workers are benefiting from its capabilities. In particular, front-line manufacturing floor workers are leveraging AI-based tools designed to help digitize and optimize training — based on data-driven insights — to suit individual employees’ needs. What once seemed like a futuristic concept has now become a tangible reality for the manufacturing sector. https://trainingindustry.com/articles/workforce-development/manufacturings-skilled-labor-gap-how-ai-is-transforming-the-industry/ Upskilling Front-Line Workers for an AI-Powered Future It is widely held that artificial intelligence (AI) will help drive productivity in the near future. But how?When you meet with manufacturing, learning and development and human resources (HR) leaders, this question is especially relevant given their massive front-line workforce. Skilling their existing workforce is now more critical than ever. https://trainingindustry.com/articles/workforce-development/upskilling-front-line-workers-for-an-ai-powered-future/ Q&A: Upskilling Manufacturing Factory Workers With AI The quest to shape our understanding of AI is occurring at the same time that we’re experimenting with its potential applications, from designing through integration of products and processes. Oftentimes, that means not only inventing but also right-sizing an AI playbook for bringing people, process and technology together. https://www.machinedesign.com/automation-iiot/article/55088773/genpact-qa-upskilling-manufacturing-factory-workers-with-ai Essential AI Skills and Training for the Modern Factory Worker Factory workers should have a basic understanding of AI concepts and how AI is applied in manufacturing. This includes knowing the capabilities and limitations of AI systems they interact with daily. Workers don't need to be AI experts, but they should be comfortable with AI as a tool that enhances their work. https://www.ferolabs.com/insights/post/essential-ai-skills-and-training-for-the-modern-factory-worker ARM Institute Issues Future of Work Study Detailing Best Practices and Collective Efforts Needed to Build a Sustainable and Resilient U.S. Manufacturing Workforce The ARM (Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing) Institute today publicly released its Future of Work study today. The study, previously issued to ARM Institute, details how advanced technologies, chiefly robotics, automation, and AI, are changing the nature of manufacturing careers and the actions needed to prepare the U.S. manufacturing workforce for these changes. https://arminstitute.org/news/future-work-press-release/ How stronger university-industry partnerships could close America's AI knowledge gap The White House has officially fired the starting gun on America's AI race, releasing a national AI Action Plan that serves as a high-level policy framework for driving innovation. But while the federal government charts the course, a chasm is widening between policy ambition and on-the-ground execution. The real front line in America’s AI race is the fractured industry-academia partnership, where a failure to turn abundant data into actionable insight stalls progress before it starts. https://www.aidatapress.com/news/academia-industry-ai-collaboration-university-new-haven-paul-s-lavoie The future workforce: Bridging the industrial skills gap with AI In the rapidly evolving landscape of manufacturing, the importance of a skilled workforce cannot be overstated. However, as technological advancements such as artificial intelligence (AI) reshape the industry, the demand for specialized skills is outpacing the available talent pool. To address this challenge, manufacturing companies are starting to turn to AI as a means of bridging the industrial skills gap and empowering their workforce for the future. https://www.themanufacturer.com/articles/the-future-workforce-bridging-the-industrial-skills-gap-with-ai/ How manufacturers are reskilling factory workers for AI adoption Manufacturers across the U.S. are leaning into artificial intelligence as a pivotal aspect of business growth. It’s not surprising then that 87% of those surveyed in a Deloitte report on AI in manufacturing have adopted the technology or plan to do so in the next two years. https://www.manufacturingdive.com/news/ai-adoption-how-manufacturers-are-reskilling-factory-workers/713523/ Building an AI-Ready Workforce: Preparing Manufacturing Employees for the Future Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) are revolutionizing industries across the globe, raising important considerations about the effects on the human workforce. While AI offers incredible opportunities for task automation and improved efficiency, it also sparks concerns regarding job displacement and the need for reskilling. Understanding the implications of AI in the workplace is crucial as we navigate these transformative times and create an AI-ready Workforce. The manufacturing sector, in particular, is poised for significant changes due to AI integration. Once-arduous manual labor tasks that were exclusively handled by humans can now be efficiently executed by robots and automated systems. This shift towards automation trigger job displacement for workers engaged in repetitive duties like assembly line work and material handling. In fact, studies indicate that a staggering percentage of current job tasks could be automated through AI between 2030 and 2060. However, it is important to note that AI will not eliminate the need for human workers altogether. Rather, it mandates a shift in the workforce’s skillsets. https://mau.com/building-an-ai-ready-workforce-preparing-manufacturing-employees-for-the-future/ Nurturing a Workforce Ready for AI Integration in Manufacturing Integrating AI systems is no longer a luxury but an absolute necessity for staying competitive in the manufacturing industry. Factories are slowly embracing AI to streamline processes, enhance productivity, and drive innovation, so the workforce’s role in this transition has become another consideration for executives and manufacturing leaders. https://www.emsnow.com/nurturing-a-workforce-ready-for-ai-integration-in-manufacturing/ How manufacturers are reskilling factory workers for AI adoption Manufacturers across the U.S. are leaning into artificial intelligence as a pivotal aspect of business growth. It’s not surprising then that 87% of those surveyed in a Deloitte report on AI in manufacturing have adopted the technology or plan to do so in the next two years. However, a key challenge to implementing AI is training a workforce to leverage the technology, especially factory-level employees. https://www.manufacturingdive.com/news/ai-adoption-how-manufacturers-are-reskilling-factory-workers/713523/ Rockwell Automation 2025 State of Smart Manufacturing Report Global manufacturers share their priorities, concerns, and the next steps around how AI-powered smart manufacturing will create new opportunities— and new risks. Find out where investment trends are headed to address internal and external factors and ultimately improve quality and create sustainable growth. https://www.rockwellautomation.com/content/dam/rockwell-automation/documents/pdf/campaigns/state-of-smart-2025/INFO-BR027D-EN-P-noi.pdf

Explore AI Nationwide Initiatives to learn about Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies Initiatives. Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies Initiatives Skills21 at EdAdvance Artificial Intelligence tools are influencing our lives and redefining education and the workforce at a rapid pace. Vital skills such as communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, managing ambiguity, and creativity are becoming increasingly important as we prepare students, teachers, and employees for a future deeply intertwined with AI. The Skills21 team supports schools, organizations, and businesses looking to amplify their success through GenAI. This work includes keynote presentations, hands-on training, and AI tools. For more info, contact: Matt Mervis, Director of Skills21 and AI Strategy, at EdAdvance. mervis@edadvance.org National Applied AI Consortium NAAIC is transforming how AI is taught at community colleges nationwide. Through strategic partnerships with leading technology companies and educational institutions, we provide the resources, training, and connections faculty need to teach AI effectively, helping colleges develop programs that create accessible pathways to high-demand careers. For whom is NAAIC: Faculty who need specialized training to teach cutting-edge AI concepts and technologies College Administrators seeking guidance on developing effective AI programs that serve their communities Industry Partners who understand what skills are needed in the workforce and have educational resources to share NAAIC serves as the bridge between these communities, facilitating collaboration, resource-sharing, and best practices at a national scale. For more info, contact: naaic@mdc.edu Sustainable Living Lab (SL2) Sustainable Living Lab (SL2) is a sustainability consultancy and innovation lab founded in Singapore in 2011. Our skillset lies in building comprehensive sustainability strategies that leverage technologies across our clients’ businesses. Our clients include several Governments, international development organisations, leading MNCs, and SMEs. Our skillset is in utilising technology as a lever for sustainability and following a community-driven approach to implementation. We have a strong presence in Asia and beyond, with teams in Singapore, Indonesia, India, and the US. Our projects span 40 countries. For more information contact: info@sustainablelivinglab.org

Explore our Resources & Materials for Education and Workforce Development Curriculum. Enhance your skills with our comprehensive resources today. Resources & Materials Discover the best practices for developing and enhancing your manufacturing program. Our comprehensive resources will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to succeed in the field of manufacturing technology. The Next Generation Manufacturing Resource Center is funded by the National Science Foundation Advanced Technological Education Program, NSF DUE ATE # 2335016. Education and Workforce Development Curriculum Miller Electric OpenBook Fabricators and Manufacturers Association e-Learning Mechatronics Curriculum The National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing is partnering with Central Community College in Columbus, Nebraska. They have generously offered to disseminate study guides of their mechatonics curriculum. The files are below: Introduction to Instrumentation Concepts of Electronics Applications of Industrial Sensors Business Industry Leadership Team Knowledge Skills and Abilities The National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing is partnering with BILT, to offer Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities for CNC Machining are provided for downloading below. CNC Machining KSA's Plastics Injection Molding KSA's Mechatronics KSA's (Coming Soon) Smart Automation KSA's (Coming Soon) Multi-craft KSA's (Coming Soon) Additional Resources