AI and Its Boring Foundation

Everyone talks about AI — few talk about the “boring” foundation that makes it work. In manufacturing, most AI dreams collapse under the weight of messy spreadsheets, disconnected systems, and inconsistent data. This session cuts through the hype to reveal why data discipline—not algorithms—is the real competitive edge. We’ll explore how small and mid-sized manufacturers can turn their existing data into a living foundation for AI, move beyond endless pilots, and start making decisions that learn and adapt on their own. If you’ve ever wondered why your AI projects stall — or how even to get started with them — this talk is for you.