Survey Reveals Nearly All Manufacturers Embracing AI and Machine Learning Innovations

A recent publication by Rockwell Automation highlights findings from their 10th annual State of Smart Manufacturing Report,revealing that a staggering 95% of manufacturers are either currently investing in or planning to invest in artificial intelligence and machine learning within the next five years.

This global survey, which gathered insights from over 1,500 manufacturers across 17 countries in March 2025, underscores a significant trend. “This year’s report illustrates how manufacturers worldwide are leveraging smart manufacturing to adapt to disruptions and seize new opportunities for enhanced speed and agility,” remarked Blake Moret, Chairman and CEO of Rockwell automation.He emphasized that innovation paired with resilience is crucial: “With the right technology and skilled personnel, we can navigate complexities confidently during periods of rapid change.”

The report reveals several key takeaways:

– A notable 81% of manufacturers acknowledge that both external pressures and internal demands are accelerating their digital transformation efforts.
– Investments are heavily focused on areas like Cloud/saas solutions, AI technologies, cybersecurity measures, and quality management systems.
– There has been a year-over-year increase of 12% in organizations investing specifically in generative and causal AI.
– Cybersecurity has emerged as the second most significant external risk; nearly half (49%) plan to implement AI for cybersecurity purposes by 2025—up from just 40% last year.
– About 48% intend to either repurpose existing staff or hire new talent as an inevitable result of their smart manufacturing initiatives.
– Additionally, around 41% utilize AI alongside automation strategies to bridge the skills gap amid labor shortages.

Quality control continues to be the leading request for AI usage for two consecutive years now; approximately half (50%) aim to integrate AI/ML technologies into their quality assurance processes by next year. The findings also indicate that smart technologies play an essential role in enhancing supply chain efficiency, promoting sustainability practices, and expediting decision-making processes.

However, challenges persist. Almost half of those surveyed believe that proficiency in applying AI has become an “extremely significant” skill—a dramatic rise from just 10% last year. this shift highlights not only the growing importance but also the urgency for companies across various sectors—including automotive manufacturing or even food production—to adapt swiftly or risk falling behind.