A new report by McKinsey describes how we are &ldquo\;on the cusp of a new automation age. Robots and computers can not only perform a range of routine physical work activities better and more cheaply than humans\, but they are also increasingly capable of accomplishing activities that include cognitive capabilities once considered too difficult to automate successfully\, such as making tacit judgments\, sensing emotion\, or even driving. Automation will change the daily work activities of everyone &ndash\; from miners and landscapers to commercial bankers\, fashion designers\, welders\, and CEOs.&rdquo\;
\n \;
\nKey regional leaders in manufacturing and technology have identified automation and robotics as an important technology impacting our region'\;s competitiveness. To accelerate our region&rsquo\;s learning and investment\, an Automation/Robotics Users Group has been formed for group members to discuss and leverage their knowledge regarding this emerging technology.
\n \;
\nJoin us for the inaugural meeting. Why attend? Hear from local experts on the best practices and state-of-the-art technology. Also\, learn about the state of the industry from one of our local suppliers\, Genesis Systems\, and tour their facility. No matter what your knowledge level\, this night will offer an opportunity to build your understanding of this game-changing technology and its business benefits. \;
\n \;
\nAgenda:

·\; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; User group objectives \;
\n·\; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; State of the technology and demonstration &ndash\; Genesis Systems \;
\n·\; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; Creating a regional Automation/Robotics \;playbook \;(implementation guide)
\n·\; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; Getting connected: 90 sec. "\;Needs &\; \;Leads"\; \;
\n·\; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; Where next: Discuss what automation/robotics subjects to pursue first
\n \;

\n
\n \; \; \; \;
\nAcknowledgment: This content was prepared as part of the Illinois Defense Industry Adjustment Program\, a partnership between the University of Illinois System\, the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce\, and the Voorhees Center at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC)\, with financial support from the U.S. Department of Defense\, Office of Economic Adjustment (OEA). \; It reflects the views of the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce and does not necessarily reflect the views of the OEA. For more information\, please visit www.IllinoisDIA.org.
\n \;