ai in manufacturing
Let’s Apply AI Where It Delivers Results
Why Many AI Initiatives Stall
The problem isn’t the technology—it’s where you start
Many manufacturers are interested in AI but don’t know where to begin—or whether it’s worth the investment. In partnership with MKE Tech Hub Coalition’s Synapse Initiative, WMEP helps manufacturers take a different approach: identify the right challenges, build a clear plan, and apply AI where it delivers real impact.
Read more about the partnership, aimed to help Wisconsin manufacturers adopt AI and advanced technologies.
1%
Fewer than 1% of AI projects reach production primarily because organizations start in the wrong place
AI Navigator Workshop
Start with the business problem, not the technology
Many organizations begin by asking: “How should we use AI?”
AI Navigator starts with a different question: “What business problem are we trying to solve?”
AI Navigator is a hands-on workshop that helps manufacturing leadership teams evaluate where AI and other solutions can support business performance. Through AI education, a structured decision-making framework, and expert coaching, participants identify a priority business challenge and create an action plan tailored to their operation.
AI Implementation Support
Hands-on support to move from planning to results
We help your team prioritize and apply AI solutions that fit your operation so your efforts deliver real outcomes without unnecessary risk.
“I enjoyed the workshop, which was set up in a way that gave us space to brainstorm. As part of the brainstorming session, experienced AI experts spent time sharing their expertise to help us refine our ideas.”
— Marcease Warren, VP of Manufacturing, Sentry Equipment Corp
Where AI Leadership Meets Manufacturing Expertise
WMEP and MKE Tech Hub’s Synapse initiative joined forces to help mid-market Wisconsin manufacturers apply AI with confidence
MKE Tech Hub Coalition is a nonprofit membership organization
serving as a unifying voice for Milwaukee’s tech ecosystem and a
catalyst for innovation through meaningful connections. Through its Synapse initiative, MKE Tech Hub provides AI strategy and transformation leadership for mid-market manufacturers across Wisconsin.
Announced in February 2026, this partnership—bringing together WMEP, UW–Stout’s Manufacturing Outreach Center, and MKE Tech Hub—helps manufacturers take a strategic, practical approach to adopting AI and advanced technologies.