AI That Actually Works on the Factory Floor with Mike Fedorov

Artificial intelligence is everywhere. Unfortunately, so is AI hype.

Manufacturers are hearing promises about smarter factories, automated planning, and AI-powered decision making. But what actually works inside a real manufacturing operation where data is messy, production schedules change hourly, and experienced employees solve problems machines never see coming?

In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, Lisa Ryan talks with Mike Fedorov, Co-CEO and COO of Applied AI Labs and former manufacturing leader at Mars and Accenture. Together, they cut through the AI buzzwords and focus on practical strategies manufacturers can implement today.

Instead of chasing shiny technology, Mike explains why successful AI projects begin with operational pain points, involve frontline employees from day one, and focus on delivering measurable business value quickly.

If you're wondering how artificial intelligence fits into manufacturing without replacing your workforce or sacrificing human judgment, this conversation is a must-listen.

What You'll LearnWhy more than 80% of AI projects fail before delivering meaningful resultsHow manufacturers can identify the best first AI projectWhy employee buy-in matters more than software selectionThe difference between AI demonstrations and real factory floor solutionsHow AI can improve production planning and sequencingWhy dirty manufacturing data shouldn't stop your AI journeyHow experienced employees and AI create stronger decisions togetherThe biggest mistakes companies make when implementing AIWhy resilience still matters even in highly automated operationsHow manufacturers can begin using AI without a massive technology budget

Key TakeawaysSolve Real Problems FirstThe best AI projects don't begin with technology.

They begin with the biggest frustrations employees experience every day.

Instead of asking, "Where can we use AI?" ask:

What's slowing us down?What's costing us money?What repetitive work frustrates our people?

Those answers often reveal the highest-return automation opportunities.

Human Judgment Still WinsAI is remarkably good at processing data.