TXI’s recap of IMEC: Smart Manufacturing Roadshow 2023

The episode:

TXI recently had the opportunity to attend the 'Smart Manufacturing Showcase' presented at MxD, a collaborative event by IMEC Illinois and CESMII in Chicago. It was an insightful gathering, bringing together industry leaders and innovators in the manufacturing space. With the current labor challenges and a skills gap that's projected to result in almost 2 million unfilled manufacturing jobs by 2030, it's clear that we need to rethink how smart manufacturing technologies are applied. Other topics include 3D printing, digital manufacturing, cybersecurity, and more. Tune in!

The podcast:

Presented by TXI, The Modern Industrialist Podcast is for technology-focused manufacturing and logistics leaders looking to gain a competitive edge with Industry 4.0 transformation. Join our host Jason Hehman as he brings together experts from companies blazing the path for the IIoT revolution. Topics range from advice to success stories, use cases, solutions, and more.

The expert:

Jason is the Vertical Lead for Industrial IoT and a Client Partner at TXI. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, he has certified brand strategist credentials and a proven track record of helping clients solve complex business problems through technology.

In Jason's current role, he works closely with clients in the industrial sector to help them leverage IoT to achieve growth and unlock new value. He applies expertise in product innovation, digital transformation, and smart manufacturing to guide them through every process step, from ideation to execution. He is passionate about understanding consumer behavior and using that insight to impact business strategy, as well as creating products that enhance user experience and satisfaction.

Podcast Host: Jason Hehman, Industry 4.0 Vertical Lead and Client Partner at TXI

Co-host: Patrick Turley, Head of Engineering at TXI

Summary and themes explored in this episode:

1. Introduction

   1. Welcome to the Modern Industrialist Podcast

   2. Focusing on accelerating transformation in the Industry 4.0 era

   3. Our goal is to spur adoption of critical technologies for industrial innovation

2. Host Introduction

   1. Jason Hehman, Vertical Lead for Industry 4.0 and IoT at TXI

   2. Joined by co-host Patrick Turley, Head of Engineering at TXI

3. Discussion on 3D Printing Innovation

   1. Turley's experience with the Bamboo Labs X One Carbon 3D printer

   2. Features and controversies surrounding the printer

   3. Transition from traditional 3D printing to newer, faster models

   4. Impact on accessibility and quality of 3D printing output

4. Transition to Main Topic: MXD and Manufacturing USA

   1. Introduction to Manufacturing USA and its role in advancing manufacturing

   2. Focus on MXD (Manufacturing x Digital) based in Chicago

   3. MXD's role as a testbed for digital manufacturing technology and cybersecurity

5. Discussion on MXD's Future Factory and Technological Demos

   1. Overview of MXD's Future Factory and its accessibility

   2. Demos showcasing spatial awareness technology, digital twins, and more

   3. The importance of making advanced technology accessible to workers

6. Statistics on Manufacturing Firms in the US

   1. 2% of manufacturing firms have over 500 employees

   2. 75% of manufacturing firms have less than 20 employees

   3. Discussion on the impact of these statistics on technology adoption

7. Challenges in Workforce Productivity and Technology Adoption

   1. Presentation of a report on automation and workforce productivity

   2. Emphasis on the need for process improvements alongside technology investments

   3. Addressing challenges related to data entry and user experience

8. Advancements in Video and Image Capture Technology

   1. Exploration of technology reducing friction for workers

   2. The role of observational technology in capturing data more efficiently

   3. Balancing data collection with privacy concerns and ethical considerations

9. Cybersecurity in Manufacturing

   1. Manufacturing identified as a top industry prone to cybersecurity attacks

   2. Introduction to the National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence

   3. Teaser for an upcoming podcast episode on cybersecurity in the industrial space

10. Conclusion and Call to Action

    1. Excitement about MXD partnership and upcoming events

    2. Encouragement for the audience to explore MXD and Manufacturing USA

    3. Announcement of an upcoming cybersecurity-focused podcast episode