Smart manufacturing technologies - from advanced sensors to new computing capabilities - have the potential to greatly improve the productivity, energy efficiency, and sustainability of the U.S. manufacturing sector. Successfully implementing these technologies is essential for ensuring U.S. competitiveness and providing new job opportunities for the U.S. workforce.

Options for a National Plan for Smart Manufacturing explores promising technologies transforming the manufacturing sector and identifies the research and resources needed to accelerate smart manufacturing adoption industry wide. This report also identifies critical needs for education and workforce development for smart manufacturing and makes actionable recommendations to support and train the next-generation manufacturing workforce.

Table of Contents

Front Matter Executive Summary 1 Introduction 2 The Value and State of Smart Manufacturing in the United States 3 The State of Smart Manufacturing Workforce and Education and Strategies to Address the Challenges 4 The State of Smart Manufacturing Technology and Strategies to Address the Challenges 5 Challenges and Opportunities in Realizing Broader Impacts of a Smart Manufacturing Sector in the United States 6 Conclusion Appendixes Appendix A: Statement of Task Appendix B: Public Workshop Agendas Appendix C: Committee Member Biographical Information Appendix D: Disclosure of Unavoidable Conflicts of Interest Appendix E: Acronyms and Abbreviations