Automation Alley

Five curated roundtables and new networking mixers will explore digital transformation while emphasizing workforce impact across all technologies. Let’s get started. automationalley.com/articles/autom…

This article from MetaOps®, Inc. explains how a Fractional COO can provide part-time operational leadership, helping organizations improve execution, align priorities, and address operational challenges without adding a full-time executive role. Learn more here: automationalley.com/2026/05/21/fra…

We’re still thinking about everything we saw at last week’s XPONENTIAL 2026. From breakthrough innovations to next-generation technology, the event showcased where the future of autonomy, robotics, and advanced manufacturing is headed. Check out our latest article highlighting seven standout innovations from XPONENTIAL 2026 and the technologies that caught our attention most - automationalley.com/2026/05/18/sev…

At Xponential 2026 in Detroit, international and local leaders in drones, defense and autonomous technology showcased innovations ranging from autonomous cargo aircraft and counter-drone systems to medical delivery drones and advanced 3D printing — highlighting how the future of mobility, logistics and aerospace is rapidly taking shape. automationalley.com/2026/05/18/sev…

"Michigan has a choice to make. We can look at the rise of artificial intelligence, cloud computing and data centers as something happening to us, or we can decide Michigan will help shape what comes next." - Automation Alley CEO Thomas Kelly in Crain's Detroit Business crainsdetroit.com/opinion/commen…

ABS is the go-to for functional 3D printing, but UV exposure breaks it down outdoors. ASA was built to solve that. Similar strength, better weather resistance, and easier real-world printing. Here’s when to use each material. @3dxtech automationalley.com/2026/05/14/asa…

Automation Alley’s Community Events Calendar highlights events, workshops, webinars and convenings that support the advancement of manufacturing, technology and the broader digital economy. automationalley.com/submit-event/

Michigan Technological University has launched the Dave House Computational Innovation Fellowship, a cross-disciplinary PhD program that funds and mentors doctoral students through joint engineering–computing research collaborations. automationalley.com/2026/05/12/phd…

Our newest Integr8 playbook, The Next Industrial Workforce: What Jobs Will the Future Demand?, brings together insights from manufacturing, technology, academia and government leaders to explore the future of workforce development in the age of AI and automation. View the playbook here: integr8series.com/the-next-indus…

Mid-market companies in 2026 can manage AI risks and unlock value by implementing a structured governance framework that emphasizes accountability, data integrity, compliance, and ongoing oversight. Read more here: automationalley.com/2026/05/08/an-…

Eastern Michigan University highlights a new initiative aimed at expanding student access to hands-on, career-focused learning opportunities to better prepare graduates for in-demand industries. Read more here: automationalley.com/2026/05/07/eas…

Academic institutions are urged to align curricula with industrial intelligence needs by integrating data, AI, and real-world applications to better prepare graduates for evolving manufacturing challenges. Read more here: automationalley.com/2026/05/06/dat…

Want to get in front of the right audience? Automation Alley sponsorship and advertising opportunities put your brand directly in front of manufacturers, innovators, and decision-makers. Amplify your message. Reach the right people. Visit live-automation-alley.pantheonsite.io/sponsorship-ad…

The future of manufacturing is being built right now. Join Automation Alley and get access to the insights, connections, and resources shaping Industry 4.0. Don’t just keep up. Stay ahead. Become a member: live-automation-alley.pantheonsite.io/membership/

ESD-safe 3D printing materials incorporate conductive additives to dissipate static electricity, protecting sensitive electronic components during manufacturing and handling. Read more from @3dxtech here: automationalley.com/2026/05/05/esd…

Manufacturers are shifting from data collection to industrial intelligence by integrating analytics, connectivity, and AI to overcome operational complexity and unlock real-time decision-making. Read more here: automationalley.com/2026/05/04/fro…

AI-driven data center scaling is accelerating demand for high-speed optical interconnects, fundamentally reshaping the optics industry’s technology roadmap, supply chains, and deployment models. live-automation-alley.pantheonsite.io/2026/05/01/ai-…

Manufacturing leaders argue that true ownership of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) must extend beyond design to a shared, end-to-end responsibility across engineering, production, and quality teams to ensure functional intent is preserved throughout the product lifecycle. Read more here: automationalley.com/2026/04/30/tot…

Rockwell Automation explains how containerized deployments with FactoryTalk Optix can help manufacturers reduce environment drift and standardize OT rollouts across machines, edge systems, and cloud environments for more repeatable updates. Read more from @ROKAutomation here: automationalley.com/2026/04/29/rep…

Independent, third-party cost assessments consistently outperform internal reviews for automotive Tier 1 suppliers by uncovering structural inefficiencies, and enabling faster, more sustainable cost transformation. automationalley.com/2026/04/28/why…

The future of manufacturing is shifting fast. MAST-P is how Michigan manufacturers stay ahead. The Michigan Auto Supplier Transition Program (MAST-P) gives small and mid-sized manufacturers no-cost access to expert guidance, technical support, and funding opportunities to pivot, grow, and compete in new markets. Explore what’s possible: automationalley.com/mast-p/