In this episode of Data Driven Manufacturing, host Rowan Easter-Robinson from TrackMyMachines welcomes Tom Smith, an experienced engineer with a background spanning CloudNC, Arrival, Fictive, and now Saeki. Recorded on-site at XY Engineering, the conversation dives into Tom’s third-generation roots in engineering and his mission to digitize tribal shopfloor knowledge to create scalable, repeatable manufacturing systems.
Tom discusses the transformative power of software in manufacturing—highlighting how AI, machine learning, and ERP systems can reduce waste, improve efficiency, and enable rapid replication across sites. They explore how platforms like CloudNC and Fictive are democratizing access to advanced manufacturing tools, particularly for SMEs, while balancing automation with the irreplaceable value of human expertise.
The episode touches on the importance of customization, real-time data analytics, and computational engineering in shaping the future of manufacturing. Tom shares hard-won lessons from VC-backed environments and emphasizes the need for adaptable, user-friendly systems that empower engineers to innovate.
Whether you're a shopfloor operator or a CTO, this episode offers rich insights into how software and data can drive smarter, leaner, and more competitive manufacturing operations.
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