It was just a few weeks ago that the Bridgera team descended on the city of Detroit for Automate 2025. Between smoothie robots, massage machines, and robot dogs, it felt like we stepped into an episode of The Jetsons. Best of all, we had the chance to connect with manufacturers, inventors, and innovators alike to discuss their AI transformation. We’ve rounded up our team’s top takeaways and predictions for Automate 2026.
Myah, Global Integrated Marketing Manager’s Thoughts
Back from Automate 2025, I was inspired to see the industrial sector shifting from AI exploration to real implementation.
My Top Takeaways:
1. Organizations seeing traction aren’t trying to boil the ocean. They’re starting small, with focused, replicable AI use cases that can scale.
2. Digital twin simulation for AI testing is gaining serious momentum. Industry leaders are leaning into it as a powerful way to validate strategies before rollout — a sign we’ve fully entered the proof-of-concept phase.
3. While energy and efficiency remain part of the conversation, the real acceleration is happening in building more intelligent, connected, and responsive operations. ROI is showing up in reduced downtime, improved workflows, and smarter decision-making.
The real opportunity now is to identify your first small, scalable use case — a quick win where AI can start delivering impact. Whether it’s improving visibility, automating a workflow, or reducing downtime, transformation starts with one measurable step.
Instead of asking “Where do we start?” — ask:
What’s one process AI can make smarter today?
Small, replicable wins lay the foundation for long-term success — and the window to act is wide open.
From strategy and simulation to implementation, skill development, and continuous optimization — the right partner can help accelerate your transformation and turn possibility into performance.
Jake, Director of Global Sales’ Thoughts
My Top Takeaways:
1. The growing emphasis on AI aligns perfectly with the direction Bridgera is heading. It’s clear that AI is top of mind for business leaders across all industries—not just as a long-term strategy, but as something they want to see implemented in practical, incremental ways today.
2. One of the key takeaways in AI development and implementation—especially among larger organizations—is the demand for a clear ROI-driven strategy. Companies aren’t just looking for AI to alleviate pain points; they want to understand how it can actively drive revenue or deliver cost savings across various areas of their business.
3. From Bridgera’s standpoint, it was eye-opening to see just how far ahead we are compared to others in their AI transformation journey. There’s a clear window of opportunity for Bridgera to establish itself as a major player in this space. Beyond our internal initiatives, we’re also well-positioned to partner with like-minded companies—offering not just a piece of the puzzle, but supporting the entire AI transformation journey from start to finish.
Joydeep, Senior Vice President of Technology
My Top Takeaways:
1. AI is officially meeting the real world. From smart robotics to predictive analytics, we’re seeing AI applied in tangible, transformative ways across industries.
2. The next 6–12 months are critical. Leading companies are actively planning or piloting automation and AI initiatives; and speed to implementation will define the frontrunners.
3. Smarter operations = sharper competitive edge. Those who adopt AI now will be positioned to move faster, adapt quicker, and deliver more value across the board.
4. AI isn’t eliminating jobs—it’s reshaping them. As AI transforms the way we work, it’s opening doors to new roles, accelerating efficiency, and helping fill critical labor shortages, especially in sectors like manufacturing. The more people who participate in the learning, the stronger AI becomes. Now’s the time to lean in and help shape how it’s applied.
5. The talent gap is real—and growing. As AI and automation evolve, companies aren’t just chasing technology, they’re racing to find skilled engineers and partners who can help implement, maintain, and scale these systems over time. Without that support, transformation stalls.
Bridgera is Your AI Transformation Guide
At Bridgera, we’re helping businesses go from smart to smarter. Our AI-powered platform bridges the gap between disconnected operations and intelligent automation—unlocking faster decisions, streamlined workflows, and scalable growth. Want to discuss your automation goals with an expert? Contact us today to speak with an automation and AI consultant. See you at Automate 2026!