From left to right: BSA Senior Director of Legislative Strategy Danielle Brown; Autodesk Senior Manager for Government Affairs Kelsey Moran; Siemens Managing Director for Digital Policy Drew Wayne; and Boeing Director for Autonomous Systems Regulatory Affairs Emily Stelzer.
Leaders from software and manufacturing companies brought to life the ways in which software and artificial intelligence (AI) are benefiting manufacturers during a Capitol Hill briefing this week hosted by the Business Software Alliance (BSA).
The discussion drew on insights from “AI and Manufacturing,” a new report from the Digital Transformation Network on the impacts from AI that are delivering results for productivity, for workers, and for US competitiveness.
During the panel, industry leaders explained how their companies are using AI in their manufacturing processes.
“We’re really looking at focusing on digital transformation that enhances the whole lifecycle of the manufacturing development process, from design to development, production, operations, and sustainment,” said Boeing Director for Autonomous Systems Regulatory Affairs Emily Stelzer.
Panelists also noted the challenges and opportunities associated with implementing AI in the manufacturing industry.
“I start with adoption. Where can it be used for productivity? I think it’s intermittent at best, and it applies in the manufacturing environment,” said Siemens Managing Director for Digital Policy Drew Wayne.
Pointing to how upskilling manufacturing workers is a crucial step towards AI adoption in that sector, Autodesk Senior Manager for Government Affairs Kelsey Moran urged different stakeholders to develop solutions to enhance workforce development.
“For workforce training, what are those jobs 5-10 years down the line going to be? What skills do people need to actually go in this industry?” said Moran. “It’s important that we all come together — government, industry, and academia — to find the right mix there.”
The manufacturing industry’s adoption of AI has accelerated in the last three years, with industry leaders indicating plans for greater investments in AI tools. BSA’s recent report highlights the impact AI is having on:
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- Operational Efficiency: Manufacturers use AI across the entire product lifecycle—from design and factory optimization to strengthening supply chain resilience and ensuring continuous improvement.
- Upskilled Jobs: AI serves as a copilot for manufacturing roles, making AI capabilities a core job requirement for the evolving workforce.
- Building AI Infrastructure: Manufacturers help maximize AI’s competitive edge by building data and energy infrastructure, securing connectivity, and incorporating digital design and manufacturing tools.
The panel was moderated by BSA Senior Director of Legislative Strategy Danielle Brown and featured Moran, Wayne, and Stelzer.
Read the full AI and Manufacturing report here.