By Andy Cheadle, CTO at CloudNC
As we enter 2025, the role of AI in the CNC machining industry has moved from theoretical promise to practical, transformative impact. At CloudNC, we’re witnessing firsthand how technology is reshaping the way parts are designed, programmed, and produced. The question is no longer if AI will change the industry: it’s how far it will take us.
Historically, creating a machining program was a painstakingly manual process, requiring hours or even days of work by experienced engineers. The process demanded not only technical expertise but also an intimate understanding of machine capabilities, materials, and tooling – assets in short supply as the industry grapples with a widening skills gap.
Now, AI-driven solutions are automating the most complex and repetitive aspects of programming, enabling engineers to focus on higher-value tasks like optimizing processes and ensuring quality. Today, hundreds of machine shops across the United States are already using CloudNC’s CAM Assist solution to significantly accelerate their operations, and increase productivity and profitability.