Announcing the Formation of the Smart Factory Institute's Technology Advisory Board

The Smart Factory Institute helps manufacturers navigate rapid technological change and prepare for what is next. As Industry 4.0 continues to shape manufacturing through automation, connectivity, and data-driven intelligence, collaboration and trusted guidance are more important than ever. To support this mission, the Smart Factory Institute is proud to formally announce its formation of the Technology Advisory Board.

A Collaborative Force

This advisory board brings together technology solution providers, manufacturers, and global partners with a shared goal of advancing practical, impactful technology adoption. The board will guide strategic direction, encourage collaboration, and ensure that innovation leads to meaningful outcomes for manufacturers. 

A Global Foundation

The Smart Factory Institute operates as part of a global network including Smart Factories in Hanover, Germany and Casablanca, Morocco. Together, we share knowledge, resources, and best practices. This global connection ensures that manufacturers benefit from international insight while remaining focused on real-world applications. Representation from Germany and Morocco on the Technology Advisory Board strengthens this perspective and will bring valuable global experience into every discussion.

Purpose of the Technology Advisory Board

The Technology Advisory Board will provide strategic guidance and expert insight to advance Industry 4.0 technologies within manufacturing. It creates a forum for open dialogue among industry leaders who are actively shaping the future of production. The board will be focused on action, helping manufacturers adopt technology with confidence, support informed decision-making, and align innovation with measurable business outcomes.

Strengthening Collaboration

A key objective of the advisory board is to strengthen collaboration across the Smart Factory ecosystem. Board members will explore opportunities for deeper engagement between technology partners and manufacturers, encouraging joint initiatives, pilot projects, and solution demonstrations. By fostering collaboration, the board helps reduce barriers to adoption and accelerates the path from concept to implementation. The advisory board will also support growth across the ecosystem by leveraging relationships and experience to connect manufacturers with the right technologies. Board members will provide input on the Institute’s strategic priorities and research direction to ensure alignment with evolving manufacturing needs, ensuring relevance, value, and long-term impact. The advisory board emphasizes the importance of shared experience and members are encouraged to exchange insights on real-world challenges, lessons learned, and best practices related to automation, digital transformation, and data intelligence. These conversations provide valuable perspectives for both manufacturers and technology providers, while also helping the broader community stay informed on emerging trends and opportunities.

Who Serves on the Advisory Board

To ensure diverse representation among technology solution providers, the board will consist of active Smart Factory Institute Technology Partners at the executive or strategic level, providing solutions in advanced connectivity, data-driven intelligence, human-machine collaboration, and advanced production methods. Selected manufacturers that are embracing automation and technology adoption will also be part of the board.

How the Board Operates

The Technology Advisory Board will meet quarterly in March, June, September, and December. These meetings will be held in person to foster meaningful discussion and relationship-building, with virtual participation available for members traveling from a distance.

Looking Ahead

The Technology Advisory Board represents a significant step forward for the Smart Factory Institute. It strengthens our ability to connect global insight with local expertise while aligning innovation with real manufacturing needs. Through collaboration, shared knowledge, and strategic guidance, the advisory board will play a key role in shaping the future of manufacturing. Together, we are not just discussing Industry 4.0 — we are actively building it! 

Join us on this exciting journey as we pave the way for a smarter, more efficient era of manufacturing. Stay tuned for updates and insights from the Technology Advisory Board.