The idea of bringing artificial intelligence (AI) into the workday is the kind of thing that comes with some clear concerns. While much of the time, it is set up as a way to help the worker, most workers in turn cannot help but wonder when it replaces the worker instead. Legacy automaker Ford (F) is bringing AI into the workplace, particularly at the Dearborn Truck Plant. Investors seem particularly enthusiastic about this, and sent Ford shares blasting up nearly 9% in Friday’s trading.Meet Samuel – Your Personal Investing ProphetStart a conversation with TipRanks’ trusted, data-backed investment intelligence
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Ford is, not surprisingly, making it clear that it is not out to replace anyone with its use of AI, but rather—as noted by plant manager Corey Williams—that AI will help workers do more and better. For instance, the AI systems will spot small errors that humans can miss. This will reportedly go a long way toward fixing problems early, which could pare back the amount of recalls that Ford has to issue later on.
Ford is also looking into 3D-printing its own line of tools for use on the factory floor, adding augmented reality to headsets, and using AI to back up monitoring systems throughout the factory. The end result is an employee that does a lot more, and thus becomes more valuable. The unspoken question is that, when one employee can do the work of two or three, then why keep the second or third employee when the same work can be done for significantly less?
