News THE NEXT WAVE // Interview with John-Paul Surdo

John-Paul Surdo, president of region Americas for Bystronic Inc. discusses navigating change in U.S. manufacturing

Q: What changes are companies making to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving manufacturing sector?

A: Our industry is seeing a major shift toward greater agility, digitalization and customercentric operations. Many companies, including ours, are refining their structures to be more responsive to customer needs and market trends. We recently restructured our global operations in a way that gives us better oversight and accelerates decision-making.

Q: What changes has Bystronic made to be more responsive?

A: We reorganized the United States into two geographic regions to break down our silos and empower decision-making. The regions have integrated sales and service operations, each with its own structure, including leadership, service, sales and account management. We added service technicians and seven new account manager positions—all intended to better serve customers and get resources closer to them. Plus, we simplified the process customers use to get in touch with us.

Q: What are some of the biggest challenges facing U.S. manufacturers?

A: The shortage of skilled labor remains a pressing issue. The demand for experienced machine operators and engineers continues to outpace supply. Another challenge is the rapid evolution of customer expectations. Manufacturers today are under pressure to provide highly customized solutions with shorter lead times. This shift requires more flexible, automated production systems, just-in-time manufacturing, and advanced software-driven processes to manage variability efficiently.

Q: How is automation reshaping the manufacturing landscape?

A: Automation is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Smart manufacturing technologies, robotics and software-driven systems are allowing companies to bridge labor gaps while improving efficiency. Automation also enhances precision and repeatability, which is especially critical in high-mix, low-volume production environments.

An exciting development is the increasing integration of software into manufacturing processes. For example, we provide real-time data and predictive analytics with our software, helping companies to optimize production, minimize downtime and enhance decision-making. Another example is digital twins, which allow manufacturers to simulate production scenarios before implementing them on the shop floor, reducing waste and improving efficiency.

Q: How do you see the role of digitalization evolving?

A: Digitalization is at the core of modern manufacturing. Companies that embrace connected production lines, cloud-based monitoring and data analytics will be better positioned to compete globally. The ability to make real-time, data-driven decisions reduces errors and increases efficiency.

Q: What’s driving reshoring in U.S. manufacturing?

A: Several factors are contributing to reshoring. Supply chain disruptions in recent years exposed vulnerabilities in offshore manufacturing models. Companies are now prioritizing local production to reduce lead times and ensure more control over their supply chains.

Incentives, such as tax benefits and grants for domestic manufacturing, are also playing a role. Automation and advanced manufacturing technologies are making it more costeffective to produce locally. When labor costs can be offset by automation, the cost gap between domestic and offshore production narrows, making reshoring a more viable option.

Q: How can manufacturers build resilience in today’s unpredictable market?

A: Agility is key. Companies need to move beyond traditional, linear supply chain models and adopt more flexible, decentralized production strategies. Investing in automation, digital connectivity and workforce development will be crucial. Collaboration is another critical factor. Manufacturers are increasingly working with partners across the value chain to share data, optimize logistics and streamline operations.

Q: Looking ahead, what do you think will define the next decade of manufacturing?

A: The convergence of manufacturing and artificial intelligence will be a defining trend. AI already is transforming quality control, predictive maintenance and process optimization, but its role will expand. We’ll soon see AI-powered systems that identify inefficiencies and autonomously adjust workflows in real time. We’ll see hyper-connected supply chains that self-adjust to disruptions— whether a raw material shortage or shifting customer demand.

Human-machine collaboration will grow. Cobots (collaborative robots) are being designed to work alongside employees, improving safety, precision and efficiency. Training programs using virtual and augmented reality will help workers upskill faster.

Manufacturing is at a pivotal moment. Companies that embrace innovation, invest in their workforce and build adaptable supply chains will thrive. My advice to industry professionals is to stay curious, stay flexible and be willing to challenge traditional ways of thinking.