Manufacturing megatrends with Barbara Humpton, CEO and President of Siemens USA [VIDEO]
Join us for an exclusive interview with Barbara Humpton, President and CEO of Siemens USA about how breakthrough technologies like AI, cloud solutions and data-driven manufacturing are transforming the industry. See these megatrends come to life at the largest manufacturing technology show, IMTS 2024.
At IMTS 2024, we had the pleasure of catching up with Barbara Humpton, President and CEO of Siemens USA, to discuss the pivotal role of breakthrough technologies in shaping the future of manufacturing. In this exclusive video interview, Barbara shares her insights on how artificial intelligence (AI), cloud-based solutions, and data-driven manufacturing are accelerating industry innovation.
Tech trends with Barbara Humpton: the role of breakthrough technologies in manufacturing
Artificial inteligence (AI) redefining manufacturing
Barbara Humpton emphasized the tremendous potential AI has in the manufacturing sector, especially in areas like automation and process optimization while reflecting on the strides made in AI since her last Siemens booth at IMTS in 2022. She highlighted how AI is now being used to predict preventive maintenance and optimize manufacturing processes by analyzing data from sensors in real time. What once seemed unimaginable is now becoming a standard approach in manufacturing facilities across the globe.
Not only is AI helping to transform operations, but Barbara references how it is also empowering the workforce by democratizing technology in manufacturing, mentioning how AI helps make advanced capabilities more accessible, allowing individuals with less technical expertise to interact with and program machines, for example.
Now we’re able to talk to machines and drive the programming that way,” she explained, noting how this shift is making manufacturing a more inclusive field, allowing a broader range of people to contribute.
Barbara Humpton, President and CEO of Siemens USA
Cloud-based solutions boast agility and accessibility
Another key trend discussed in the interview was the rise of cloud-based solutions, such as what was showcased at Siemens IMTS 2024 booth. Barbara pointed out how cloud technology is leveling the playing field for small and medium-sized enterprises. Instead of investing in costly infrastructure, businesses can now leverage cloud-hosted solutions, such as the newly released NX X Manufacturing, on a license basis, giving them access to industry-leading technology without the need for large capital outlays.
Even small and medium enterprises can participate on a license basis and use just what they need,” she said, underscoring the flexibility and scalability cloud solutions offer.
Barbara Humpton, President and CEO of Siemens USA
Data-driven manufacturing fostering continuous improvement
Barbara highlighted how data-driven manufacturing is unlocking new levels of efficiency. She pointed to the adoption of the digital twin as an example, where virtual models mirror physical processes to optimize performance. At IMTS 2024, the Siemens booth featured just that with live demonstrations of our digital manufacturing technology showing the complete manufacturing process in action, amplifying the power and flow of data that enables an optimized manufacturing process.
Barbara marveled at the showcase of Siemens partners, such as TRAK Machine Tools and DN Solutions, who leverage Siemens vibrant partner ecosystem to rapidly integrate solutions into the Siemens Xcelerator platform and produce the next generation of products.
A seamless manufacturing process from concept to installation
One of the most striking elements of Siemens presence at IMTS was the demonstration of a complete manufacturing process — from design, engineering, manufacturing, and assembly — of an innovative electric vehicle transmission housing. Barbara shared her admiration for the way Siemens showcased this holistic process, stating how this end-to-end demonstration, particularly the manufacturing process of the electric vehicle transmission case at the booth, truly showcases the power of digital transformation and the fact that it’s achievable for customers whether SMBs or large enterprises.
The evolving role of women in manufacturing
In closing, Barbara reflected on the evolving role of women in manufacturing and emphasized that achieving gender parity could significantly close the workforce gap in manufacturing. Barbara encouraged women to consider careers in this dynamic field, pointing out that the skills they already possess —developed through everyday interactions with modern technology — are highly applicable to the manufacturing environment.
We’re working on things that are truly changing the world. We need the kind of talents that women will bring to the table.”
Barbara Humpton, President and CEO of Siemens USA
As we continue to see rapid advancements in manufacturing technology, the role of visionary leaders like Barbara Humpton is increasingly crucial in guiding the manufacturing industry into the future.
Special thanks to everyone who visited us at IMTS 2024! If you weren’t at the event, learn more about what we featured at our booth where innovation meets real-world applications. Next up? We’re already gearing up for more opportunities to engage with the manufacturing community, both in person and online! Stay tuned.
