The world of manufacturing is evolving – and education must evolve with it. At Simply Technologies, we work with schools, colleges, and universities to equip students with the tools that may not only define THEIR future, but the future of industry. That future is increasingly powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI).
And already, this is where it gets uncomfortable for us. Many woodworkers view CNC as the stepchild of true woodworking. We hear it at every trade show! Bring AI into the conversation, and we may be shunned entirely! Haha.
AI is no longer just a buzzword, it’s everywhere! Most of AI’s true impact is invisible. It runs quietly in the background – optimizing processes, making systems smarter, and shaping outcomes without us even noticing. The world is changing not so much through flashy breakthroughs, but through thousands of subtle improvements that collectively redefine how we live and work.
It is also reshaping how products are designed, produced, and optimized. It is streamlining manufacturing, and making machinery smarter and significantly more efficient. By integrating AI into CNC machining, laser cutting, and 3D printing, educators can begin to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world industry demands, preparing students with the skills employers need today and tomorrow.
So, as we begin to dream, what could the future of digital manufacturing look like with the introduction of AI?
Smarter CNC Machining
AI-driven CNC systems can auto-optimize toolpaths, monitor tool wear, and make real-time adjustments during production. This means students do not just learn how to operate machines, but they learn how to think like modern machinists, solving problems with data, design, and innovation.
Precision Laser Engraving & Cutting
AI enhances material recognition, fine-tunes settings automatically, and ensures pinpoint accuracy in cutting and engraving. Students spend less time troubleshooting and more time creating, producing professional-grade results with confidence.
Intelligent 3D Printing
With AI, print issues can be identified before they cause failures. Support structures are optimized, slicing parameters adjusted dynamically, and material waste reduced. Students achieve more successful prints while gaining a deeper understanding of additive manufacturing.
Restoring North American Manufacturing – Through Education
Manufacturing in North America is making a comeback (and nope, we aren’t diving into THAT conversation!), but its future depends on a new generation of skilled, tech-savvy makers. AI is a key driver of that revival – making production faster, smarter, and more competitive. By bringing AI into the classroom, educators are helping rebuild domestic manufacturing one student, one machine, and one innovation at a time.
The Simply Technologies Advantage
At Simply Technologies, we continue to work closely with Laneton to ensure our products stay at the forefront of innovation. Together, we are actively exploring ways to incorporate Artificial Intelligence into every machine that we build. Much of AI’s power lies in what happens behind the scenes – optimizing toolpaths, predicting maintenance needs, and improving efficiency in ways that users may not even notice, yet feel in every project. By embedding these intelligent features, we aim to keep pace with industry advancements and ensure that educators have access to the same future-ready tools driving modern manufacturing.
We envision partnering with educators to deliver AI-ready CNC machines, laser systems, and 3D printers, backed by curriculum support and expert training. Whether you are a high school tech teacher or a post-secondary instructor building an advanced manufacturing lab, we provide the tools to move education forward.
Empower students. Embrace the future.
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Steve Stevenson
Co-Founder of Simply Technologies Group, Inc.