The IndustryWeek manufacturing community turned its attention to a wide range of topics this past week, including AI-driven continuous improvement, bipartisan efforts to safeguard Manufacturing Extension Partnerships (MEPs), and warning signs that lean initiatives may be straying from their purpose.

AI Kaizens at TE Connectivity

TE Connectivity has demonstrated that artificial intelligence can be a practical tool for manufacturing improvement. Three successful examples of AI-based kaizens have expanded the leadership's technological toolbox, generating tangible gains on the shop floor. The company's embrace of AI kaizens shows how traditional continuous improvement methods can be augmented with modern technology.

Protecting Manufacturing Extension Partnerships

In Washington, a bipartisan group of senators introduced the "Defend American Manufacturing Act" in response to previous administration attempts to eliminate the MEP program, which provides critical support to small and medium-sized manufacturers. The bill aims to shield the program from political and administrative threats, ensuring that these partnerships can continue to help manufacturers innovate and compete.

Lean Warning Signs

A new episode of the "Behind the Curtain: Adventures in Continuous Improvement" podcast warns that disconnects in lean initiatives—such as shallow problem solving and centralized improvement teams—can signal potential failure. Organizations are urged to stay vigilant and ensure their efforts remain connected to the original purpose of continuous improvement.

Reshoring and Immigration Policy

Reshoring efforts face significant hurdles due to bottlenecks in the work permit system. Immigrants with work authorizations are no longer receiving extensions during agency delays, creating chaos for manufacturers who rely on foreign talent. Industry observers argue that without immigrant workers, reshoring goals will be difficult to achieve.

Other Highlights

• Toyota announced increased U.S. assembly capacity.
• Lucid Motors hired restructuring specialists while denying rumors of Chapter 11 filing.
• California introduced a rebate for first-time EV buyers, and ChargePoint expanded its network.
• A new pricing model for industrial AI was discussed, emphasizing outcomes-based charging rather than consumption.