Manufacturing Performance Days 2025 launched in spectacular fashion with an unprecedented showcase on automation in manufacturing – across time and technology.

The opening session offered a mesmerizing glimpse into the past, present, and future of manufacturing through a conversation never before witnessed: a virtual panel featuring Henry Ford, the father of mass production; Taiichi Ohno, pioneer of lean manufacturing; and Mikko Nyman, CEO of Fastems and chair of MPD 2025.

What made this discussion extraordinary? All three were brought to life as AI-powered avatars, engaging in a vivid, thought-provoking conversation about the evolution of production lines, from the mechanization of the early 20th century to today’s agile, intelligent factories.

The show continued with an AI-reconstructed glimpse into the history of manufacturing — from the forge and the steam engine, through electrification, and onward to a future shaped by robotics, autonomy, and sustainability.

The AI-powered show was produced by Dr. Heli Harrikari, Head of EU Strategy, DIMECC Oy, with music composed by Dr. Markku Oivo, Distinguished Advisor, DIMECC Oy.