Integr8 Roundtable – Lights-Out Manufacturing: The Autonomous Factory & the Human Advantage

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About

What happens when the factory floor runs without the lights on—and what does that mean for the people who power it?

Lights-out manufacturing is no longer theoretical. Advances in AI, robotics, machine vision, and connected systems are enabling factories to operate autonomously—optimizing production, reducing downtime, and reshaping the economics of manufacturing. But while the technology is accelerating, the real question is how the workforce evolves alongside it.

In this exclusive Integr8 roundtable, HIROTEC will share its roadmap to lights-out manufacturing—offering a behind-the-scenes look at how autonomous systems, digital infrastructure, and human expertise come together to build the factory of the future.

This session will explore where full autonomy makes sense today, where human intervention remains critical, and how manufacturers can begin the transition without disrupting operations or culture. From rethinking workforce roles to redefining leadership in a software-driven environment, this conversation will challenge assumptions and provide a practical path forward.

Designed for executives and decision-makers, this discussion will move beyond hype to focus on what’s actually working—and what’s next.

Roundtable Questions

TBD

Agenda

8:30 a.m. Arrival, check-in, coffee, breakfast

9:00 a.m. Welcome and Introduction from Automation Alley

9:15 a.m. Roundtable Discussion: Tables will engage in breakout conversations

10:15 a.m. Key Takeaways: Table representatives will engage in a fireside chat to discuss breakout conversation highlights

10:55 a.m. Closing

11:00 a.m. Optional Networking for Participants

Date & Time

9/16/2026 8:30 am-11 am

Location

2675 Bellingham Rd, Troy, MI 48083