In this episode of Supply Chain Now, sponsored by Microsoft, hosts Scott W. Luton and Kevin L. Jackson welcome Rahul Shahani, Partner at McKinsey & Company, for a comprehensive discussion of the current challenges and priorities in the manufacturing industry. With expertise spanning Industry 4.0, supply chain optimization, and digital transformation, Rahul provides valuable insights into the human factors driving successful manufacturing operations.

The discussion covers the role of technology and AI in tackling critical issues, from workforce empowerment to optimizing production. Rahul shares real-world examples of AI applications that are enhancing productivity, like digital twins and automated scheduling, and highlights how manufacturers are adapting to evolving economic conditions, nearshoring trends, and rising demands for sustainability.

Tune in to discover how leaders are redefining the manufacturing landscape by empowering their teams, leveraging digital tools for better decision-making, and navigating an era of rapid innovation—all while building resilient, future-ready operations.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(02:21) The evolving role of AI in manufacturing

(05:44) Key challenges facing the manufacturing sector today

(10:22) The importance of resilience and adaptability in supply chains

(12:15) Leveraging AI and technology for talent retention

(15:03) Enhancing productivity with digital tools on the factory floor

(18:05) Virtual reality and AR in onboarding and training

(21:16) How digital twins drive operational efficiency

(30:22) Optimizing communication with AI-powered insights

(34:01) Success stories from the Global Lighthouse Network

(38:30) Critical takeaways for leaders embracing digital transformation

(42:45) Insights on Microsoft’s impact on the manufacturing industry

Additional Links and Resources:

• Connect with Rahul Shahani: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahulshahani/
• Learn more about McKinsey & Company: https://www.mckinsey.com/
• Connect with Kevin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kjackson/
• Connect with Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/ 
• Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com 
• Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now  
• Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join  
• Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
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• WEBINAR- Introduction to Microsoft Supply Chain: Enabling Scale and Complexity: https://bit.ly/40K1rsz
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This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson, ,and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/strengthening-manufacturing-productivity-AI-featuring-mckinsey-1354