May 2026 Volume 8

AUTOMATION

Looking Ahead As AI and automation technologies continue to evolve, the barrier to entry for smaller shops will only decrease. Tools that were once limited to large organizations are becoming increasingly accessible, allowing job shops to compete in new ways. For forge tooling suppliers, this presents an opportunity to enhance responsiveness, improve accuracy, and deliver greater value to customers. Automation may look different in a job shop environment, but its impact is no less significant. By embracing a broader definition, one that includes digital workflows, AI-assisted development, and smarter information handling, shops can unlock efficiencies that were previously out of reach. In an industry built on precision and performance, that’s an advantage worth pursuing.

• Standardizing internal documentation formats • Reducing redundant data entry across systems Individually, these may seem like minor improvements. Collectively, they represent a significant reduction in administrative workload. More importantly, they allow our team to focus on what actually adds value, engineering, problem-solving, and supporting our customers. Material Handling… of Information While we may not be moving billets or forgings through an automated line, we are constantly handling another critical resource: information. Every job that comes through our shop involves a flow of data, customer prints, revisions, material specifications, tooling requirements, and more. Managing this information efficiently is essential to maintaining accuracy and meeting delivery expectations. In many ways, our automation efforts mirror the goals of traditional material handling systems: • Reduce delays – Ensure information is available when and where it’s needed • Minimize errors – Eliminate manual data entry and duplication • Improve flow – Create a seamless transition between processes • Increase visibility – Provide real-time insight into job status and costs By treating information as something that needs to be “handled” with the same care as physical material, we’ve been able to improve overall shop efficiency. A Practical Path Forward For shops that may feel left out of the automation conversation, it’s important to recognize that automation doesn’t have to start with robotics or major capital investment. In fact, some of the most effective solutions are accessible with minimal cost: • AI-assisted coding tools can accelerate internal development • Simple scripting can connect existing systems • Process mapping can identify bottlenecks and redundancies • Incremental improvements can build momentum over time The key is to start small and focus on areas where time is being lost to repetitive tasks or manual data handling.

Bailey Taylor Sales Associate

EST Tool & Machine, Inc. Email: Bailey@esttool.com Phone: 606-758-4626

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