National Association of Manufacturers releases report on AI

The National Association of Manufacturers, Washington, D.C., released a white paper titled “Working Smarter: How Manufacturers Are Using Artificial Intelligence.” The report covers the role artificial intelligence plays in modern manufacturing, highlighting how manufacturers utilize AI as consumers, developers and deployers. 

The white paper discusses various AI technologies, including machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, machine vision, digital twins and robotics. It emphasizes that AI enhances production processes, improves efficiency, and fosters innovation in product development, safety, predictive maintenance and supply chain logistics. 

Key insights from the report include: 

• AI tools are widely used across the manufacturing industry and are crucial for advancing modern manufacturing. 
• Manufacturers employ AI to amplify operations and meet their commitments to improving quality of life. 
• AI functions optimally when humans are the core decision-makers within AI-enhanced processes. 
• Policymakers are urged to develop sensible, tailored frameworks for AI applications, leveraging manufacturers’ extensive experience to guide these efforts. 

The report showcases examples from various manufacturers, such as Johnson & Johnson, which uses AI to improve drug development, hospital restocking and supply chain management. The document also highlights the importance of training the workforce to effectively engage with AI technologies. 

The white paper advocates for a policy environment that supports AI innovation and responsible use in manufacturing and mentions taking a cautious approach to AI regulation, emphasizing the need for appropriate compliance burdens to maintain U.S. competitiveness in this emerging field.