Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), the global leader in industrial automation and digital transformation, has released its 10th annual State of Smart Manufacturing Report. Based on insights from over 1,500 manufacturers across 17 major industrial nations, the 2025 edition highlights a surge in smart technology investments as businesses respond to persistent economic uncertainty.

The study reveals that 95% of manufacturers have already invested or plan to invest in AI and machine learning (ML) within the next five years. Cloud computing, cybersecurity, and quality management also top the list of priorities. The adoption of generative and causal AI tools grew by 12% year-over-year, reflecting a shift from experimentation to strategic implementation.

Blake Moret, Chairman and CEO of Rockwell Automation, emphasized the growing synergy between technology and human talent: “With the right tools and teams, manufacturers are turning disruption into opportunity by embracing speed, agility, and resilience.”

Key findings from the report include:

  • 81% cite internal and external pressures as catalysts for digital transformation.
  • 49% aim to deploy AI in cybersecurity strategies by 2025, up from 40% in 2024.
  • 50% plan to apply AI/ML for quality control—the top use case for the second consecutive year.
  • 48% are either hiring or reskilling staff to support smart manufacturing, while 41% leverage AI to bridge labor shortages.

Beyond AI deployment, manufacturers are using digital tools to reinforce supply chain efficiency, enhance sustainability efforts, and improve decision-making speed. Notably, there has been a 5% uptick in the importance of analytical and AI capabilities in leadership roles, underlining the critical intersection of innovation and workforce development.

Despite progress, implementing AI remains complex. The report notes a sharp increase—from 10% to nearly 50%—in leaders viewing AI proficiency as a mission-critical skill.

Methodology
The study surveyed 1,560 professionals in roles ranging from management to executive leadership across industries such as automotive, food & beverage, life sciences, and semiconductors. Conducted in partnership with Sapio Research, the research covered companies with revenues from $100 million to over $30 billion.

About Rockwell Automation
Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Rockwell Automation employs around 27,000 professionals in over 100 countries. The company is committed to connecting people with technology to enhance productivity and sustainability on a global scale.

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News Source: Businesswire.com