Empowering SMEs Through Digital Transition: The Smart Manufacturing Solution Summit

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are poised to undergo a significant digital transformation, fueled by a significant investment of ₩222 billion from the Small and Medium Venture Business Department.At the forefront of this initiative is the ‘Smart Manufacturing Solution Summit,’ a pivotal event hosted by POSTECH (Pohang University). Scheduled for April 25th, the summit aims to equip SMEs with the knowledge and tools necessary to thrive in the era of Industry 4.0.

Summit Highlights: AI, Digital Twins, and Enhanced Work Environments

The summit will serve as a dynamic platform for sharing insights into the latest artificial intelligence (AI) advancements, cutting-edge technology trends, and strategic approaches to smart manufacturing. Attendees will gain valuable exposure to advanced smart factory solutions leveraging AI and digital twin technology. Thes solutions are designed to not only optimize production processes but also to significantly improve the working conditions within small manufacturing companies, proactively prevent industrial accidents, and address the growing challenges of labor shortages.

POSTECH anticipates that the summit will act as a crucial catalyst, providing clear direction for innovation within SMEs and accelerating the widespread adoption of digital technologies across the manufacturing sector. This is particularly important as recent data indicates that only 30% of smes have fully embraced digital transformation strategies (Source: McKinsey Global Institute, 2024).

Keynote speakers: Industry Leaders Shaping the Future of Manufacturing

The summit boasts an extraordinary lineup of keynote speakers,including Yoo Eung-jun,formerly President of NVIDIA,widely recognized as an AI evangelist in Korea,and Lee Kwang-rim,Head of EY Consulting. These industry luminaries will share their perspectives on the current state of the AI and smart manufacturing landscape,offering invaluable strategies and visionary insights for navigating the digital transformation journey.

Yoo eung-jun’s extensive experience in fostering AI startups and organizing influential AI conferences has been instrumental in enhancing the competitiveness of numerous companies. Lee Kwang-rim,with over 25 years of management consulting experience in manufacturing,distribution,and service industries,currently leads EY Consulting’s Market and Technology Platform,spearheading data,digital,and AI strategies for major domestic corporations.

AI conversion (AX) is accelerating throughout the manufacturing industry, and it is urgently needed to secure AX competitiveness and foster professional manpower in local manufacturers.

Lee Kang-deok, Mayor of Pohang

Global Participation and Hands-On Experience

The summit will feature participation from a diverse range of global companies, including Dassault Systèmes, LG Electronics, Rockwell Automation, and Schneider Electric, alongside prominent domestic and international players in the reductions and ICT sectors. Attendees will have unparalleled opportunities to engage with the latest technologies, interact with field experts, and gain hands-on experience with real-world solutions.

Participation in the ‘Smart Manufacturing Solution Summit’ is free of charge, and interested individuals can register through the POSTECH or Events website. This summit represents a critical step towards empowering SMEs and driving the digital transformation of the manufacturing industry in Korea and beyond.