Last Wednesday, manufacturing leaders, industry experts, and technology innovators gathered in Knoxville for an exciting CESMII Smart Manufacturing Roadshow, hosted in partnership with the Tennessee Manufacturing Extension Partnership (TMEP). The event provided a hands-on look at cutting-edge manufacturing technologies, fostering discussions on how Tennessee manufacturers can leverage digital transformation to enhance productivity and competitiveness.

Key Highlights from the Event

The day kicked off with major announcements from CESMII, setting the stage for a deep dive into smart manufacturing solutions. Attendees got an exclusive look at a case study featuring a Tennessee manufacturer deploying ThinkIQ’s camera-based data acquisition system—an innovative approach to real-time process monitoring and decision-making.

Live smart manufacturing demonstrations from CESMII members showcased AI-driven analytics, IoT integration, and cloud-based automation, providing a glimpse into the future of industrial efficiency.

During lunch, participants had the opportunity to network with industry leaders while exploring local technology vendors displaying the latest manufacturing tools and digital solutions.

The event continued with breakout sessions, where industry experts led in-depth discussions on key smart manufacturing technologies. Attendees engaged in hands-on demonstrations, including:

• Power BI Demo by JN – How manufacturers can utilize data visualization for smarter decision-making.
•  Dr. Sai Swaminathan’s Sensor Platform – A look at the latest sensor technology revolutionizing industrial operations.

The event concluded with guided tours of TN-MADE’s advanced additive and machining center, giving participants a firsthand look at how Tennessee is leading the way in innovative production techniques.

Why Smart Manufacturing Matters

As manufacturers across Tennessee face challenges such as labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, and increasing production costs, smart manufacturing offers a pathway to resilience and efficiency. CESMII and TMEP are committed to equipping businesses with the tools, knowledge, and resources to stay ahead in an evolving industry.

The CESMII Roadshow in Knoxville was a powerful reminder of the opportunities that digital transformation presents for Tennessee manufacturers. For those who couldn’t attend, TMEP is here to help your business navigate the next steps in smart manufacturing adoption.

Interested in learning more? Contact TMEP to explore how your company can implement smart manufacturing solutions today!