What is Smart Manufacturing? What You Need to Know Now (60 mins)
This session should set the foundation for the series by defining Smart Manufacturing in plain language, clarifying why it matters, and helping manufacturers understand what it means for their facility, team, and bottom line. It should also introduce Ohio-specific resources and partner support available after the webinar.
Speakers: Mike Yost (ManufacturingWorks), Tim Stuart (Visual Decisions)
Date and Time: May 21: 11 am – 12 pm ET
Link: https://myoma.ohiomfg.com/Event.aspx?EventKey=WFDW052126
Agenda Topics:
- Defining Smart Manufacturing (SM) today
- The role of data, connectivity, AI, and the workforce in SM
- How connected real-time data enables AI driven semi-autonomous methods
- Real-world use cases and ROI examples
- The OT/IT convergence opportunity
- Overview of Ohio-based resources, including CESMII tools, MEP support, and state-led opportunities
Key Takeaways:
- A shared language for Smart Manufacturing
- A clearer understanding of where a facility may sit today in the SM journey
- Confidence to begin the conversation internally
- Awareness of CESMII resources and Ohio-based support available
Part of a 3-Part Series on Smart Manufacturing Education:
This session kicks off a three-part series designed to equip educators with practical tools and industry-aligned insights.
See all three sessions:
• May 21, 2026 – [What is Smart Manufacturing? What You Need to Know Now]
• July 23, 2026 – [Establishing a Strategic Smart Manufacturing Journey Roadmap]
• August 18, 2026 – [Skills Needed in Your Workforce to Execute the Smart Manufacturing Strategy]



