As collaborative robots become more common in industrial settings, ensuring human robot workplace safety is crucial. This article explores how cobots can enhance productivity while supporting inclusive and accessible work environments. It also highlights the importance of risk assessment, smart design, and ethical use of technology to protect all workers—especially those in vulnerable groups.
During the recent SKillAIbility consortium meeting, MADE Competence Center showcased an AR-assisted assembly workstation that exemplifies the project’s focus on human-centric manufacturing technology. This demonstration provided tangible evidence of how SKillAIbility’s core principles can be implemented in real-world manufacturing settings. The workstation demonstrated by MADE uses interactive projections directly on the assembly surface to guide…
This article explores the evolving role of Vocational Education and Training (VET) institutions in preparing the workforce for an AI-driven future. As industries shift toward automation and digitalization, VET providers face challenges such as resource constraints, lack of digital readiness, and the need for inclusive training models. The article highlights strategies to address these issues—ranging from educator upskilling and industry collaboration to adopting Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and assistive technologies. It also showcases the contribution of the SKillAIbility project in developing inclusive, AI-integrated training solutions for manufacturing, and presents the Basque Country’s innovation-driven VET approach as a regional model for embedding AI in education systems.
Last week, the SKillAIbility consortium held its first General Assembly in Milan, hosted by Politecnico di Milano (POLIMI) and MADE Competence Center. This key event brought together all 14 project partners from across Europe to review progress and define the next steps in shaping a more inclusive, AI-augmented manufacturing workforce. The meeting kicked off with updates on Work Package 2…
SkillAIbility welcomes the EU’s Union of Skills initiative, addressing skills gaps with AI-driven, inclusive training solutions for Industry 5.0. Discover how we support reskilling, workforce empowerment, and digital transformation to boost Europe’s competitiveness.
Picture a manufacturing floor where advanced robots handle heavy lifting and repetitive tasks, while human workers focus on creative problem-solving and oversight. This isn’t science fiction – it’s the emerging reality of Industry 5.0. This new paradigm blends human ingenuity with cutting-edge technology, all while prioritizing sustainability and worker well-being. Building on the automation breakthroughs of…
SKillAIbility is new €3 million European research project aims to ensure artificial intelligence and automation benefit all workers, including people with disabilities and older employees in manufacturing jobs. This marks a significant step toward advancing human-AI collaboration in manufacturing, creating more inclusive workplaces. The SKillAIbility project, led by Politecnico di Milano and bringing together 14 partners…
The SkillAIbility project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under Grant Agreement No 101177783. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. This work has received funding from the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI).
