Editor’s comment: Technology and skills drive smarter maintenance
17 September 2025 
Artificial intelligence is now a routine part of operations in many plants and facilities across the UK. Predictive and proactive maintenance, powered by AI, is enabling better scheduling, extending the life of assets, and improving efficiency. Rather than replacing skilled teams, these systems
are supporting them – taking on complex diagnostics and data analysis so that engineers can focus on higher-level decision-making and planning.
Digital twins have also moved beyond early trials to become practical tools used in day-to-day operations. Their ability to create accurate, data-rich models of equipment and processes is helping organisations forecast more accurately, manage assets remotely, and carry out maintenance with
greater precision. The latest generation of twins, enhanced by AI, is providing deeper insight and integration across the entire lifecycle
of assets, supporting more reliable and sustainable operations.
These developments are starting to work together in meaningful ways. Companies are using AI and digital twins not only to improve productivity
but also to meet energy and emissions targets. Efficiency gains, reduced downtime, and better resource planning are becoming essential as businesses adapt to rising costs and stricter environmental investment in skills is helping teams adapt to these changes and make the most of the technologies being introduced.
Encouragingly, the next generation of engineers appears ready to build on this progress. This year’s A-level results showed a steady rise in STEM
subjects, with maths, physics, and engineering seeing particular growth. University acceptances for engineering and technology courses
are also up, indicating a growing pipeline of skilled talent entering the sector. This momentum is vital as industries seek to close skills gaps
and ensure that digital transformation is sustainable in the long term.
The pace of change is steady and unlikely to slow. For UK industry, the challenge in the months ahead will be ensuring these technologies are
accessible to organisations of all sizes, not just those with significant resources. Digitalisation, combined with practical application and a well-trained workforce, is no longer optional. It has become a core part of how maintenance and manufacturing operate today, and it will continue to shape the sector as we move into the final quarter of 2025 and beyond.
Aaron Blutstein, Editor