Automation Alley - Home Page
Category - IoT
Industry Insights – Simply Intuitive: Redefining OT Network Management with Software-Defined Networking
In the world of operational technology (OT), network complexity has long been a stumbling block. Plant managers and engineers are tasked with keeping production running, not wrestling with VLANs, IT firewalls, or layers of IT jargon. Enter software-defined networking (SDN) and micro-segmentation, concepts that may sound overly technical at first glance but, in practice, create
Category - Cybersecurity
SOC for Cybersecurity: Reliable Third-Party Attestation
As cyber threats become more sophisticated and pervasive, organizations must demonstrate robust cybersecurity practices to protect sensitive data and maintain stakeholder trust. Your suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders are keen to understand your cybersecurity program in order to evaluate risks associated with being affiliated with your organization. Before we dive into the details, let’s clarify
Category - Economic / Global Trends
How Have Taxes and Tariffs Changed for Businesses in 2025?
Both taxes and tariffs have changed dramatically in 2025. President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) Act rewrote major elements of the tax code while his tariff policies significantly increased the cost of importing goods into the United States. You’re almost certainly affected by at least some of 2025’s tariffs or tax updates. So, what
Category - Education
On Track for Innovation: MSU’s Hybrid Rail Inspection System Sets a New Standard for Safety and Speed
Michigan State University’s interdisciplinary team has developed a groundbreaking, non-contact hybrid rail inspection system that detects surface and subsurface defects in real time at speeds up to 60 mph—setting a new benchmark in safety, efficiency, and innovation.
Category - Big Data
Transmit Power and Data without Contact
Phoenix Contact pioneered a new connectivity solution with contactless data and power transfer.
Category - Big Data
What Misaligned Data is Really Costing You
Misaligned data across teams may look harmless, but it quietly sabotages growth, erodes trust, slows decisions, undermines AI ROI, and increases operational and cultural risk.
Category - Workforce
Forging Futures: Metal Casting Summer Youth Program Sparks Interest in Metallurgical Careers
Michigan Tech’s brand-new ‘Metal Casting: Forge Your Future’ summer camp gave high schoolers hands‑on experience from CAD to molten metal and even let them cast their own keepsakes—sparking excitement in metallurgical careers.
Category -
How Floor Robots Increase Safety and Reduce Workloads
Lyons Industries is a family-owned manufacturing company that produces over 1,000 bathtubs and showers each day. Learn how an Industry 4.0 Technology Implementation Grant helped the company jumpstart its Industry 4.0 journey with floor robots.
Category -
How Augmented Reality Is Empowering the Disabled Community
Only about 40% of working-age people with a disability in the U.S. are employed, compared to almost 80% of non-disabled working-age people This is a large gap that has the potential to close significantly through the deployment of Industry 4.0 technologies which also decreases the stigma of hiring people with disabilities over time.
Category -
Case Study: Markforged, SQP Engineering and Strada Percussion Drilling Systems
Using SQP’s Markforged FX20, Strada Percussion Drilling Systems created a lighter, more portable, and ergonomic tool that is rust-proof, user-friendly, and cost-effective, reducing production costs by 30% and lead time from two weeks to two days.
Category -
Verizon and RealBotics: 5G is Coming, Robots get Ready!
Problem Robots sometimes go idle, need a restart or to be repositioned, or drop a part, which can cause production to stop and cost a manufacturer thousands of dollars per minute during an unexpected shut down. Often the solution is as simple as the robot needing the help of a human to keep working; however,
Category -
Siemens Energy Improves Efficiency with Markforged Platform
With Siemens supporting many of the world’s highest performing compression stations, power plants, and refineries, taking a turbine offline for multiple weeks is certainly not desirable and so any process that can reduce that downtime is welcome.
Category -
Shaping the Future of the Manufacturing Workforce
The manufacturing sector is set to produce 3.5 million new jobs over the next decade, but 2.5 million workers are on pace to retire, leaving U.S. manufacturers with a 6 million shortfall in available talent for jobs that are evolving rapidly—a double squeeze.
Category -
Project DIAMOnD’s Successful Activation of Distributed 3D Printing Network to Assist Ukraine During Wartime Serves as Proof of Concept for a Future of Additive, Digitally Connected Supply Chains
Russia’s recent invasion of Ukraine disrupted manufacturing supply chains for many critical medical supplies. When the Ukrainian government put out an urgent request for life-saving tourniquet parts, Automation Alley, working with Markforged, activated Project DIAMOnD, the world’s largest distributed manufacturing network, to 3D print the critical supplies on demand. The experience yielded several key learnings. This case study highlights the key takeaways, which represent necessary considerations for successful deployment of any large, distributed manufacturing network, as well as the industry’s path to bringing additive’s supply chain benefits to mainstream use at scale.
Category - Thought Leaders
The Roadmap to Industry 4.0's Global Future Unveiled
Data is the foundation of Industry 4.0, but a skilled and empowered workforce will enforce this technological change. Learn the key strategies for manufacturers to take on digital transformation.
Category - Thought Leaders
Blockchain Technology Can be a Game-changer for Industry 4.0, Smart Manufacturing
Blockchain technology has moved beyond its cryptocurrency upbringing, serving forward-thinking companies in mitigating supply chain risks and enhancing cybersecurity. Though the technology shows promise, the question of blockchain regulation is a large x-factor in the discussion around its mass adoption. Regulation aside, the future is bright for the technology in Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing.
Category - Thought Leaders
Recruiting Diverse Professionals in Engineering and Technology in Michigan
The field of engineering has work to do when it comes to being inclusive to all genders and races. The GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology (GACET) at Eastern Michigan University seeks to take on this challenge, providing tailor made programs for underrepresented future engineering students.
Category - Thought Leaders
Innovation at the Supplier Level for Electric Vehicle Thermal Systems and Beyond
Lasting innovation doesn’t happen when designing around existing commercial components. Tesla’s “Super Bottle,” as named by Tesla Engineers, revolutionized the way EVs could seamlessly integrate components in 2017. Today, Tesla pushes the EV industry toward designing around a new 48 volt system. This will force tier 1, tier 2 and tier 3 suppliers to redesign components, providing an opportunity in the EV market for those agile and iterative enough to compete.
Category - Thought Leaders
Ripple Effect: How Sustainability in The Construction Industry Benefits Manufacturers and Beyond
With an unprecedented amount of construction projects related to the onshoring of manufacturing in progress, U.S. manufacturers with sustainability goals should recognize lasting change starts with building green.
Category - Thought Leaders
Let’s Jumpstart Your Journey to NIST/CMMC Compliance
Identity theft happens too often, companies are losing IP to the tune of billions of dollars every year, and we as a nation are not prepared for a cyber war. Automation Alley members Mettle Ops want to make sure your company is prepared.
Category - Thought Leaders
Empower Your Business Through Automation
How can automation tools empower businesses to leverage their own data to be more efficient and profitable? Automation Alley members Clayton & McKervey offer up some solutions that utilize KPIs, dashboards, forecasting, and analytics to help give you a competitive edge.
Category - 3D PrintingIn The News
The Gap Between Hype and Reality in Additive Manufacturing
Additive manufacturing is moving beyond the hype, as smarter software, better materials, and contract manufacturers make 3D printing more scalable and accessible for small and mid-sized manufacturers.
Category - In The News
Why more and more high-tech companies are choosing to “Make It in Michigan”
US Center for Advanced Manufacturing CEO Cynthia Hutchison is featured in this article on Michigan's manufacturing growth. Michigan's manufacturing expertise, bolstered by over $1.2 billion in federal funding and a focus on semiconductors, is driving...
Category - In The News
CBS News Video: New Initiative Aims to Make 3D Printing More Accessible
Project DIAMOnD CEO Pavan Muzumdar was featured on CBS News speaking about the newly-opened Digital Transformation Center and the goals of additive manufacturing in Michigan.
Category - In The News
Building a Culture of Cyber Resilience in Manufacturing
Cynthia Hutchison, US Center for Advanced Manufacturing CEO, and Katelyn Kontny, Program Manager of the Oakland University Cybersecurity Center at Automation Alley, were quoted in this WEF playbook on cyber resilience in manufacturing. Learn more about how the Forum prioritizes cybersecurity throughout the manufacturing value chain.
Category - CybersecurityIn The News
Automation Alley to open DOE-funded Cybersecurity Center at Oakland University
Automation Alley has been awarded $2 million from the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER) to create a university-based cybersecurity center in Michigan.
Category - Playbooks
The Rise of AI: Shaping Industries Through Intelligent Innovation
Dive into the future of industry with Automation Alley's Integr8 Playbook on artificial intelligence (AI). This comprehensive guide, shaped by leaders in technology, manufacturing, government, and academia, explores the transformative power of AI across sectors. Discover how AI is reshaping workflows, amplifying decision-making capabilities, and driving innovation forward. Uncover insights on navigating the dynamic landscape, embracing breakthroughs, and addressing crucial ethical considerations in the rapid evolution of AI. Join us in revolutionizing how we work, live, and create with this important resource for Industry 4.0 adoption.
Category - Playbooks
Shaping Tomorrow: Mastering Additive Manufacturing
Embark on a journey of discovery with Automation Alley's Integr8 Playbook on Additive Manufacturing, encompassing not only the transformative potential of 3D printing but also the crucial realm of design for additive manufacturing (DFAM). This playbook emerges from a dynamic roundtable discussion where leaders across sectors—technology, manufacturing, government, and academia—converged to explore how additive manufacturing is reshaping industries and necessitating a shift in workforce mindset. With recommendations tailored for industry, academia, and government, this implementation guide equips stakeholders with the insights and strategies needed to embrace the additive manufacturing revolution. Dive into this essential resource and join us in shaping the future of manufacturing.
Category - Playbooks
Navigating the Future: Global Industry 4.0 Trends Standards and Policy
Explore the diverse landscape of Industry 4.0 as nations worldwide navigate unique paths of technological evolution. Each nation contributes to the global conversation on digital transformation in its own way. Despite promising advancements, significant political and social challenges hinder global collaboration, necessitating a renewed commitment to dialogue. This Integr8 Playbook is the output of industry, academic and government collaboration, and emerges as a pivotal resource, aiming to set international standards of excellence and address ethical concerns surrounding transformative technologies. Read the full playbook for actionable insights that will help define the global landscape of technological collaboration and prosperity beyond borders.
Category - Playbooks
Future-Ready Workforce: Navigating Digital Transformation Together
Born from the insights and discussions of our esteemed roundtable participants in industry, academia and government, this workforce playbook serves as a comprehensive guide to navigating the complexities of our new digital world. In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, the workforce stands at the forefront of shaping the future of industries. As we embrace artificial intelligence, automation, IoT and other digital technologies, this playbook offers actionable recommendations aimed at empowering organizations to thrive amidst digital disruption. From strategies to upskill and reskill existing talent pools to fostering a culture of innovation, this playbook provides a roadmap for building a resilient and adaptable workforce primed for success in the digital age. It not only identifies key challenges, but also offers practical solutions and best practices gleaned from real-world experiences. By leveraging the insights contained within its pages, stakeholders across industries can gain a competitive advantage, drive operational excellence, and future-proof their businesses against the uncertainties of tomorrow.
Category - Playbooks
Diving Into the Digital Realm: Harnessing the Power of Digital Twins
Unlock the transformative potential of digital twins with our comprehensive digital twin playbook, crafted from insights shared by industry leaders in technology, manufacturing, government, and academia. Discover how digital replicas can revolutionize your operations through predictive maintenance, real-time simulations, and innovative process optimization. Gain practical implementation strategies and real-world success stories that will help you integrate this cutting-edge technology into your organization. Dive in today and lead your industry into a smarter, more efficient future.
Category - Playbooks
Creating a Secure Future: Navigating Cybersecurity Resilience
Explore the evolving cybersecurity threat landscape, proactive defense strategies, and collaborative approaches to safeguard your digital assets. From data breaches to ransomware attacks, this playbook will help businesses better understand the latest trends and best practices in securing the digital future. With insights from industry, academic and policy experts, this playbook is an implementation guide aimed at helping you stay competitive in the evolving digital world.
Category -
Stretching Automation Dollars Further: Optimizing Manufacturing With Predictive Maintenance and Enabling the Workforce
Automotive manufacturers face one of the most challenging production environments in decades. And current economic and industry conditions will likely impact for years to come.
Category -
5th Executive Summit – Current Trends and Challenges Facing American automotive BIW-Metal-Forming
The global automotive industry is undergoing a profound transformation. Electromobility is driving greater drivetrain diversity, while shifting supply chain structures and a worsening shortage of skilled labour are intensifying the pressure. But it's not just external conditions fuelling this change – the vehicles themselves and the way they're built are being fundamentally reimagined.
Category -
Business and Economic Outlook for Mexico’s Automotive and Aerospace Industries
Explore trade opportunities in Mexico’s fast-growing automotive and aerospace sectors at Automation Alley’s conference, featuring expert insights, case studies, and details on the 2026 Trade Mission to Mexico.
Category -
Integr8 Roundtable: Mobility
The transition from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles is reshaping the automotive industry. Join Automation Alley for this roundtable event, co-located with CAR MBS, for an in-depth discussion on how this transformation impacts manufacturing processes, workforce skills, and supply chain logistics. Your participation will shape a nationally recognized Integr8 Playbook to guide the transition
Category -
Automation Alley’s Trade Mission to Eurosatory 2026 in Paris, France
Participate in the leading global exhibition and conference for defense and homeland security. Join the Michigan Pavilion Automation Alley, in partnership with Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), invites Michigan companies to exhibit within our Michigan Pavilion at Eurosatory 2026, the world’s premier defense & homeland security event. With 2,000+ exhibitors from 60+ countries, 76,000+ visitors,
Category -
Automation Alley’s Trade Mission to Automotive Meetings, Querétaro, Mexico
Join Automation Alley’s trade mission to Automotive Meetings Queretaro, a leading automotive and aerospace hub. The mission includes participation in Automotive Meetings Querétaro, a B2B matchmaking forum focused on automotive and aerospace, connecting global suppliers with buyers, OEMs, and Tier 1 procurement leaders. Automotive Meetings is the leading B2B matchmaking forum for Mexico’s automotive and
Category -
Automation Alley’s Trade Mission to MEDICA Trade Fair in Düsseldorf, Germany
Automation Alley invites you to join our trade mission to MEDICA, one of the world’s largest B2B medical trade fairs. With over 5,000 exhibitors and 80,000 visitors from 165 countries, the conference and exhibition will focus on a wide range of innovative healthcare and medical technology solutions aimed at curing diseases and improving patient outcomes.
Featured
Industry Insights – Simply Intuitive: Redefining OT Network Management with Software-Defined Networking
SOC for Cybersecurity: Reliable Third-Party Attestation
How Have Taxes and Tariffs Changed for Businesses in 2025?
On Track for Innovation: MSU’s Hybrid Rail Inspection System Sets a New Standard for Safety and Speed
Transmit Power and Data without Contact
What Misaligned Data is Really Costing You
Forging Futures: Metal Casting Summer Youth Program Sparks Interest in Metallurgical Careers
How Floor Robots Increase Safety and Reduce Workloads
How Augmented Reality Is Empowering the Disabled Community
Case Study: Markforged, SQP Engineering and Strada Percussion Drilling Systems
Verizon and RealBotics: 5G is Coming, Robots get Ready!
Siemens Energy Improves Efficiency with Markforged Platform
Shaping the Future of the Manufacturing Workforce
Project DIAMOnD’s Successful Activation of Distributed 3D Printing Network to Assist Ukraine During Wartime Serves as Proof of Concept for a Future of Additive, Digitally Connected Supply Chains
The Roadmap to Industry 4.0's Global Future Unveiled
Blockchain Technology Can be a Game-changer for Industry 4.0, Smart Manufacturing
Recruiting Diverse Professionals in Engineering and Technology in Michigan
Innovation at the Supplier Level for Electric Vehicle Thermal Systems and Beyond
Ripple Effect: How Sustainability in The Construction Industry Benefits Manufacturers and Beyond
Let’s Jumpstart Your Journey to NIST/CMMC Compliance
Empower Your Business Through Automation
The Gap Between Hype and Reality in Additive Manufacturing
Why more and more high-tech companies are choosing to “Make It in Michigan”
CBS News Video: New Initiative Aims to Make 3D Printing More Accessible
Building a Culture of Cyber Resilience in Manufacturing
Automation Alley to open DOE-funded Cybersecurity Center at Oakland University
The Rise of AI: Shaping Industries Through Intelligent Innovation
Shaping Tomorrow: Mastering Additive Manufacturing
Navigating the Future: Global Industry 4.0 Trends Standards and Policy
Future-Ready Workforce: Navigating Digital Transformation Together
Diving Into the Digital Realm: Harnessing the Power of Digital Twins
Creating a Secure Future: Navigating Cybersecurity Resilience
Stretching Automation Dollars Further: Optimizing Manufacturing With Predictive Maintenance and Enabling the Workforce
Integr8 Roundtable: Mobility
5th Executive Summit – Current Trends and Challenges Facing American automotive BIW-Metal-Forming
Business and Economic Outlook for Mexico’s Automotive and Aerospace Industries
Integr8 Roundtable: Mobility
Automation Alley’s Trade Mission to Eurosatory 2026 in Paris, France
Automation Alley’s Trade Mission to Automotive Meetings, Querétaro, Mexico
Automation Alley’s Trade Mission to MEDICA Trade Fair in Düsseldorf, Germany
Members
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Explore
Is Your Tech Stack Ready for AI? 5 Diagnostic Questions
Midsized companies are investing heavily in AI tools and digital platforms — only to realize too late that their foundation isn’t solid. Disconnected systems, poor data quality and outdated infrastructure are causing many to redo work, spend more on back-end fixes or...
AI
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How the 3D Printing in the Defense Industry Improves Operational Readiness Across Military Branches
In today’s rapidly shifting global environment, supply chain resilience is mission-critical. The U.S. defense industry — from the Navy and Marines to the Army and Air Force — is embracing 3D printing in defense applications to reduce downtime, accelerate innovation,...
3D Printing
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SOC for Cybersecurity: Reliable Third-Party Attestation
As cyber threats become more sophisticated and pervasive, organizations must demonstrate robust cybersecurity practices to protect sensitive data and maintain stakeholder trust. Your suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders are keen to understand your...
Cybersecurity
View More
Industry Insights – Simply Intuitive: Redefining OT Network Management with Software-Defined Networking
In the world of operational technology (OT), network complexity has long been a stumbling block. Plant managers and engineers are tasked with keeping production running, not wrestling with VLANs, IT firewalls, or layers of IT jargon. Enter software-defined networking...
IoT
View More
MTU Robotics Lab Wins International Autonomous Navigation Competition
Amna Mazen had her sights set on a win for more than a year. The assistant professor of applied computing and manufacturing and mechanical engineering technology has been working on her algorithm for mobile robot navigation since her Ph.D. in...
Robotics
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Learn More About Studying Smart Manufacturing and Automation at UM-Flint
A passion for computing and technology doesn't have to mean working in Silicon Valley or coding in a coffee shop. In an increasingly data-driven world, technological competencies could make job-seekers an asset in nearly every...
Automation
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Forging Futures: Metal Casting Summer Youth Program Sparks Interest in Metallurgical Careers
Along with campfire cookware and bronze coins, high school students cast an eye on potential careers in metalworking during Metal Casting: Forge Your Future — a brand-new experience offered through Michigan Technological University's popular Summer Youth Programs....
Workforce
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