In September I was delighted to expand my years-long collaboration with EIT Manufacturing to include EFFRA and the European technology platform ManuFuture – three bodies in the manufacturing sector that some time ago decided to pool their expertise to advance European industry. The second edition of the European Manufacturing Conference took place at a tricky, transitional time for Europe, as volatile political and economic realities continue to have a tangible effect on the ground.
With over 400 participants there was much to talk about, starting with the impact of AI and XR on work, education, and manufacturing, and strategies – both political and operational – for maintaining European competitiveness. It was an action-packed two days, during which I chaired thought-provoking panels on hot button topics like diversity as a key to innovation – and how changes in geopolitics are necessitating new conversations, particularly in formerly taboo areas like security and defense.
A highlight was inspiration from bestselling author & tech pioneer Alvin Wang Graylin who says the unprecedented changes in store with immersive AI are coming faster than any of us think – and now it’s our job to connect the dots and be prepared – to keep it human.
Photos: © Xavier Lejene