Manufacturers urged to cut through the AI hype

Lancashire manufacturers are being invited to cut through the hype surrounding artificial intelligence and discover how it can deliver practical business benefits.

Mark Edwards, operations director at Burnley based Seriun, will be a key speaker at the free event, hosted by Made Smarter North West, alongside Professor Simon Bolton from Edge Hill University.

The government-backed programme, helping SME manufacturers adopt digital technologies and skills, has partnered with AI, IT and cyber security specialist Seriun to host ‘From Hype to Shop Floor: Best Practice AI Adoption for Manufacturers’ at Glass Futures in St Helens on Tuesday, July 14.

The half-day event will bring together manufacturers, AI specialists, academics and industry experts to explore how businesses are already using AI to improve productivity, reduce downtime, streamline routine tasks and make better use of data.

Through expert presentations, manufacturer case studies, open discussion and networking opportunities, delegates will leave with ideas they can apply in their own businesses.

Mark Edwards, pictured, will explore how manufacturers can identify practical AI opportunities and measure return on investment.

Professor Bolton, associate dean for enterprise, skills and employability at Edge Hill University, will share the latest thinking on AI adoption and implementation, and advisers from Made Smarter North West, who will explain the support, funding and skills available to help manufacturers begin their AI journey.

The event builds on Made Smarter North West's recently launched AI Adoption Toolkit, a free practical guide that helps SME manufacturers identify where AI can add the greatest value and how to adopt it with confidence.

One of the businesses featured in the toolkit, Liverpool-based product design and engineering consultancy D Squared, will share its first-hand experience of introducing AI into the business, explaining how it is using the technology to

accelerate product development, improve decision making and strengthen its competitive edge.

Hosted at Glass Futures, the event will also give delegates the opportunity to see one of the world's most advanced industrial research facilities, where AI is powering a digital twin of its pilot furnace.

Kevin Smith, lead technology adoption specialist at Made Smarter North West, said: "There's so much conversation around AI that it can be difficult for manufacturers to know what's relevant to their business.

“This event is about cutting through that noise. We're bringing together experts and manufacturers who are already using AI to share practical experiences, answer questions and show that getting started doesn't have to be complicated.

“Whether you're exploring AI for the first time or looking to build on existing projects, you'll leave with practical ideas you can put into action."

Mark Edwards said: “AI isn’t just for large manufacturers with big budgets. Many of the biggest gains come from improving everyday tasks, making better use of data and giving people the tools to work more efficiently.

“We want manufacturers to leave with a clearer understanding of where AI can deliver real value and the confidence to start applying it in their own business."

The event takes place from 9am to 12pm on Tuesday, July 14, at Glass Futures, James Roby Way, St Helens. Places are free but limited and must be booked in advance.

Made Smarter North West offers SME manufacturers a range of support to help them adopt digital technologies, including digital transformation workshops, impartial technology advice, leadership and skills programmes, digital internships and matched grant funding for technology projects.