Training: AI in manufacturing

Introduction

Artificial intelligence offers great opportunities for companies in the manufacturing industry. However, the step from interest to effective application is not self-evident. You may be wondering where to start, which use cases deserve priority, how to choose the right partners, or how to deal with regulations and risks.

The AI in Manufacturing training course helps you to embed AI strategically, thoughtfully and sustainably in your organisation. The focus is on vision, strategy, organisation and governance — so that you can make informed decisions and invest in a targeted manner.

The training course is organised by PUC-KU Leuven Continue in collaboration with Flanders Make, VAIA and NXTGN, among others, with the support of VLAIO.

For whom?

This course is aimed at decision-makers in SMEs in the manufacturing industry, such as:

• CEOs
• CTOs, CIOs and COOs
• Board members and managers responsible for strategy, innovation or digitisation

Objective?

After completing this course:

• you will understand the most important AI concepts and their relevance to the manufacturing industry;
• you will be able to formulate realistic AI ambitions and strategies;
• you will be able to assess and prioritise AI opportunities in a targeted manner;
• you will be able to have more productive discussions with technical teams and external partners;
• you will have insight into legal, ethical and organisational preconditions;
• you will have concrete tools at your disposal to implement AI in a sustainable manner.

Structure of the training course

The programme consists of several complementary modules.

0. AI maturity scan (online)

You start with an online maturity scan that assesses your company's AI readiness. You gain insight into strengths and areas for growth in terms of strategy, data, organisation and governance. This forms the starting point for the rest of the programme.

1. Introductory session: AI and strategy

During this session, you will gain a clear overview of AI concepts such as predictive, generative and agentic AI. You will learn how AI systems are structured and what they can mean in concrete terms for the manufacturing industry. The model of the “AI-ready organisation” forms the common thread here.

2. E-learning: AI risks and legislation

In this online module, you will gain insight into the legal and ethical aspects of AI. You will learn how to assess risks and how to use AI responsibly within your organisation.

3. Technical deep dive: AI in the manufacturing industry

In this in-depth session, you will discover how AI systems are developed and implemented in practice — from data collection and model development to validation and operational integration. This will enable you to better assess what is technically feasible and relevant for your company.

4. AI strategy workshop

During this interactive workshop, you will work on a concrete AI strategy for your organisation. You will identify opportunities, set priorities and translate ambitions into a feasible action plan.

5. AI purchasing guide workshop

In this session, you will learn how to critically evaluate AI solutions and technology partners. You will be given tools to ask the right questions and make informed choices when investing in AI.

Practical information

• Period: March 2026 – June 2027 (modules spread over this period)
• Location: Leuven (with additional editions in other Flemish regions)
• Language: Dutch
• Target group: decision-makers in the manufacturing industry

More information can be found on the training page of PUC-KU Leuven Continue.