Investing in Automation
Tackling a skills shortage
The Automation Enhanced Workforce
The manufacturing sector faces a critical juncture. A deepening labor shortage, amplified by global events, is threatening the operational viability of businesses large and small. Ignoring this skills gap is no longer an option.
By 2030, the National Association of Manufacturers forecasts 2.1 million unfilled jobs in U.S. manufacturing, translating to a devastating $1 trillion annual cost. Manufacturers are struggling to attract and retain the skilled workers essential for growth.
The solution is clear: Investing in an automation-enhanced workforce unlocks a new era of efficiency, resilience, and innovation in manufacturing. Read below to discover five reasons an integrator such as Bold helps overcome these hurdles and sets your production up for success, now and in the future.
Targeted Automation
(5 Reasons)
1. Strategic Automation Removes Bottlenecks First
Instead of rebuilding entire production lines, targeted automation focuses on constraint points.
- Increase throughput without full-line disruption
- Reduce operator burden on repetitive tasks
- Scale incrementally with faster ROI
Result: More output using your existing workforce
2. Process + Automation, Aligned From the Start
You’re not just buying a machine—you’re building a manufacturable process.
- Laser cutting, drilling, marking, and joining integrated into production
- One partner aligning process development, tooling, and automation
- Reduced implementation risk
Result: Better yield, fewer handoffs, faster deployment
3. In-Process Metrology at Production Speed
Quality shouldn’t slow production—it should be part of it.
- Inline inspection and automated gauging
- Real-time measurement and feedback
- Reduced manual inspection errors
Result: Higher quality without creating bottlenecks
4. Faster Product Launch with Practical Automation
Not every problem requires full automation.
- Fixtures, test jigs, and poka-yoke tooling
- Semi-automation for repeatability + flexibility
- Faster ramp to stable production
Result: Lower capital risk and faster time-to-market
5. Hybrid Workforce with Cobot Support
Automation works best when it supports—not replaces—people.
- Cobots handle loading, transfer, and repetitive tasks
- Operators focus on high-value decision-making
- Scalable path toward future automation
Result: A modern, flexible, and scalable workforce
