About this Event
The Made Smarter East of England Digital Manufacturing Showcase will bring together SME manufacturers, digital technology providers and industry experts at Airbus Defence and Space, Hertfordshire on 3 November 2026. [Hertfordsh...OE 1 pager | Word]
The event will demonstrate how practical digital technologies can support improvements in productivity, resilience, sustainability and business growth. It is designed to help manufacturers better understand the opportunities presented by Industry 4.0, identify suitable technologies and build confidence in making future investment decisions.
Delegates will benefit from keynote presentations, technology demonstrations and networking opportunities covering:
- Automation and robotics
- Artificial intelligence
- Industrial IoT and sensors
- Data analytics and dashboards
- Digital production management
- Machine monitoring and predictive maintenance
- Digital twins and simulation
- Cyber security
The showcase will focus on affordable and scalable solutions that can be implemented by smaller manufacturers, regardless of their sector or current level of digital maturity. Attendees will also have opportunities to engage directly with technology suppliers, other manufacturers and Made Smarter advisers.
The aim is simple: to demonstrate the art of the possible and provide East of England manufacturers with a clearer pathway to begin or accelerate their digital transformation journey.
NOTE: This is a defence site, therefore it is under several UK government regulations. This may limit
Agenda
🕑: 09:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Doors Open & Networking
Info: Doors opening with networking, arrival coffees and the chance to meet other manufacturers.
🕑: 10:00 AM - 10:15 AM
Welcome & Introduction
Info: A welcome and introduction to the technology journey businesses have been experiencing as part of the Made Smarter journey.
🕑: 10:15 AM - 10:45 AM
The Future of Manufacturing in the East of England
Info: A look at how digital technology is reshaping manufacturing and why accessible digital adoption matters for businesses of every size.
🕑: 10:45 AM - 11:45 AM
Panel: Automation at an Affordable Price
Info: Automation does not have to mean a complete factory overhaul. Manufacturers and technology specialists discuss realistic, scalable approaches to automation, the problems businesses should address first and how SMEs can build a convincing case for investment.
Key themes: identifying the right process to automate, starting small, managing cost and risk, demonstrating return on investment, and scaling successful solutions.
🕑: 11:45 AM - 12:00 PM
Comfort & Coffee break
🕑: 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
Local Support & Infrastructure
Info: Hear from the groups making up the local support infrastructure and network, helping SME manufacturers become more confident not only in technology but adding to their bottom line.
🕑: 12:30 PM - 01:30 PM
Lunch & Technology Showcase
Info: Continue conversations with speakers, exhibitors, manufacturers and Made Smarter advisers while exploring the technology showcase.
🕑: 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Panel: AI in Manufacturing and Cyber Security
Info: An accessible discussion about where artificial intelligence can deliver genuine value in manufacturing, alongside the cyber security considerations that businesses must address when adopting connected and data-driven technologies.
Key themes: practical AI applications, production and operational data, quality and efficiency, cyber risks, protecting connected systems, and taking responsible first steps.
🕑: 02:30 PM - 02:50 PM
Your Next Steps with Made Smarter & Beyond
Info: You've heard the experts, now let's focus on how YOU can deliver technical adoption for your business. Before the event closes, take key info on where you can get help for what you've learnt
🕑: 02:50 PM - 03:00 PM
Event End & Exit
Event venue & nearby stays
Gunnels Wood Road, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, United Kingdom
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