Automation Isn’t About Robots — It’s About People
by Shawn Furman
Director, Automation and Manufacturing Technology Strategy
Manufacturers Resource Center
As we wrap up 2025 and head into the holidays, manufacturers everywhere will be reflecting on another fast-paced year. Between workforce challenges, rising costs, and talk of AI taking over the world, it’s easy to feel like Clark Griswold trying to untangle a few thousand Christmas lights.
But when it comes to automation, remember this: it’s not about replacing people — it’s about empowering them.
People Are the Real Problem Solvers
Artificial intelligence, robotics, PLCs, and sensors are all great tools — but they’re still just tools. They don’t fix problems; people do.
The magic happens when skilled employees use automation to eliminate repetitive tasks, uncover hidden inefficiencies, and make better decisions. It’s like giving your team the right “power tools” for the job — not handing them the whole workshop and walking away.
Running Without Automation Is Like Driving a Sleigh Without Reindeer
Every manufacturer feels it: customers want faster delivery, higher quality, and lower cost — all while the labor pool keeps shrinking.
Trying to keep up without some level of automation is a lot like trying to pull Santa’s sleigh by hand — you might move it a few feet, but you won’t make it around the world. Automation isn’t about doing more with less; it’s about doing more with the team you already have by giving them the tools to succeed.
Training: The Gift That Keeps on Giving
Even the fanciest automated system won’t run right if your team doesn’t understand the process. You can’t automate chaos.
That’s why training remains the cornerstone of success. When people understand how things work — and why — they can build better automation, maintain it more effectively, and adapt as technology evolves. Investing in training is like investing in the spirit of the season: it pays dividends long after the decorations come down.
A Little Holiday Wisdom
At the end of Christmas Vacation, Clark’s boss, Frank Shirley, admits:
“Sometimes things look good on paper but lose their luster when you see them in real life.”
That line hits home for manufacturers. Automation projects that look great in a brochure or demo video only succeed when real people — your people — understand and support them.
So, as you plan for 2026, remember: Automation doesn’t solve problems — people do.
The best companies blend people, process, and technology into something that shines brighter than any Christmas display.
Happy Holidays!
May your holiday season be filled with peace, progress, and just the right amount of twinkle lights.
Cheers to a smart, prosperous, and people-powered 2026!
About the Author
Shawn Furman
Shawn, Director, Automation and Manufacturing Technology Strategy, mentors MRC manufacturers to lead and guide them in advanced technologies that enhance quality, boost productivity, encourage innovation, and reduce production time. Today that also includes digital transformation, automation and robotics, and IT integration that enables innovation and smart manufacturing, driving extraordinary outcomes for customers.
Manufacturers who want to learn more and to discuss Process Improvements, Advanced Manufacturing Technology resources and Implementations, please call Shawn at (610) 737-2529 or email him at shawn.furman@mrcpa.org