About this session

For decades, the concept of the "dark factory" — a manufacturing operation capable of running with minimal human intervention — has been viewed as the ultimate vision of industrial automation.

Today, advances in AI, robotics, autonomous systems, and real-time decision-making are bringing that vision closer to reality. But for manufacturing leaders, the real question is not whether a fully autonomous factory is possible. It is understanding where autonomy creates value, where human expertise remains essential, and what practical steps organizations should take to move toward greater operational independence. While some production environments may be well suited for highly autonomous operations, others will continue to depend on people for problem-solving, maintenance, oversight, and continuous improvement.

In this interactive discussion, you will connect with manufacturing and operations leaders exploring the next stage of industrial transformation. Together, you will challenge assumptions about the future of factory operations, discuss the realities of implementing autonomous systems, and explore what the journey toward greater autonomy means for production performance, workforce design, and operational leadership. Expect to walk away with actionable insights and peer perspectives on how to navigate the path toward increasingly autonomous manufacturing operations.