Bernd Rohde, CEO and member of the Board of Directors of Italian Germany Exhibition Company, gave us an overview of the progress and challenges facing our country in terms of the consolidation of Industry 4.0.
Since the first edition of Industrial Transformation Mexico (ITM) in 2019, the concept of Industry 4.0 has gained ground, not only in large companies, but also in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The latter, which at first saw digitization as an alien or costly process, have come to understand that digital tools can be applied to any stage of their production chain without the need for excessive investment. Access to digitization is within the reach of many Mexican companies, this has benefited them to be highly competitive.
“The issue of Industry 4.0 in Mexico is already a reality. This is a process that can take months or years, the vast majority of companies, especially those related to advanced manufacturing are already in some stage of development,” he emphasizes.
Technological advances in key sectors
Sectors such as automotive and aerospace are among the most advanced in terms of adopting digital technologies for their production processes. However, other industries, such as footwear and food, still have some way to go. Rohde highlights the growing prominence of young entrepreneurs who are betting on skilled talent with a modern business vision. He stresses that education, both public and private, together with dual training programs, are key to training the right people.
Challenges for the expansion of Industry 4.0
Mexico still faces important challenges, mainly the lack of specialized talent. Although the country has a young population, a major boost is needed in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) careers as well as the inclusion of women in these fields. Another challenge is infrastructure, as the lack of connectivity and high logistical costs limit technological adoption. In addition, Rohde highlights the importance of a legally secure environment to attract long-term investment.
“Among the most important challenges we have is human talent, on the one hand, Mexico is a country that has a demographic advantage, we have a large number of young people compared to other countries in Europe. However, there are talents that do not have the skills that the industry requires or is demanding today,” he explains.
The role of 5G Connectivity
Rohde identifies 5G connectivity as a crucial enabler for the development of advanced technologies such as autonomous vehicles and drones. Investment in this technology is considerable, but getting key industrial parks and economic zones connected to 5G is critical for the country to continue in its industrial digitalization process. He acknowledges that even advanced economies such as Germany face similar hurdles, stressing that this is a global transition.
Bernd highlights how digitalization and Industry 4.0 are revolutionizing the business landscape in Mexico. However, the country faces significant challenges in areas such as talent development, infrastructure and connectivity, which are essential to continue driving this transformative process.
Expectations for ITM 2024
The Industrial Transformation Mexico (ITM) event to be held October 9-11, 2024 in Leon, Guanajuato will continue to showcase advances in industrial digitalization, with a special focus on emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI). It is expected the participation of 20,000 attendees and 275 exhibitors, both national and international. In addition, it will feature the presentation of cutting-edge innovations in automation, digitization, cybersecurity and manufacturing.
ITM has become the industry's leading trade show by encompassing an exhibition area, conferences and an extensive educational program; all of this united by the general themes of digital transformation in Mexico and smart manufacturing.