Interview with VDMA’s Guido Reimann AI in manufacturing: from the pilot phase to actual practice

At AMB 2026, artificial intelligence will move from trend topic to practical tool for metal working. VDMA’s Guido Reimann explains where AI is already delivering value in mechanical engineering, what still slows implementation and why digitalisation, AI, digital twins and open-source software will shape the next phase of industrial competitiveness.

AMB, the international exhibition for metal working, is taking place once again from 15 to 19 September 2026 in Stuttgart and will have three key themes under the spotlight, namely automation, the circular economy and artificial intelligence (AI). Guido Reimann talks about how much progress the industry has actually made and what decision-makers can expect to take away from AMB 2026. Reimann is Deputy CEO of VDMA Software and Digitalisation, as well as Co-ordinator of the VDMA Artificial Intelligence Competence Network.

AI was also extensively covered at the AMB 2024 event. Where does the metal cutting industry stand now in 2026? Has AI infiltrated industrial practice or are pilot projects still dominating?