Broadcasting with Futurists: Industry 5.0: Transformation Through Human-Machine

Industry 5.0: Transformation Through Human-Machine

Industry 5.0 is redefining technology with a human-centric approach. In this interview, we explore the core objectives of Industry 5.0, its differences from Industry 4.0, and predictions for its future, with insights from the automotive sector. Discover how the fusion of human creativity and machine power enables more personalized, sustainable, and meaningful manufacturing processes.

This interview answers critical questions, such as:

• How does Industry 5.0 enhance personalization in manufacturing?
• How is the role of the workforce evolving?
• What are the biggest challenges companies face during this transition?

Dive into our interview to understand the future of Industry 5.0 and how to harness this revolutionary transformation.

Interviewee: Sevgi Özçelik

Born in 1976 in Kocaeli, Sevgi Özçelik graduated from Anadolu University, Faculty of Business Administration with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and completed her master’s degree in business administration at Gebze Technical University. Since 1997, she has contributed to the development of the industry by serving in different positions at TAYSAD Vehicle Supply Manufacturers Association. He has played an active role in TAYSAD’s projects aimed at increasing the competence of its members, especially in the fields of training, conferences, domestic and international fairs, and the development of international competitiveness.

Interview

How do you define Industry 5.0, and what are its main objectives?

You can think of Industry 5.0 as a time when people and technology go hand in hand. The aim is to create smarter, more flexible and more responsive production processes by combining the power of machines and the creativity of humans. Particularly in the automotive industry, this allows for more individual and customized solutions in both the production and design of vehicles. Sustainability and environmental awareness are also key objectives. In other words, I can say that technology is becoming more human serving.

What makes Industry 5.0 different from its predecessor, Industry 4.0, particularly regarding human involvement?

Industry 4.0 focused more on automation, robots and the internet of things. Industry 5.0, on the other hand, gives humans the opportunity to take centre stage again. Technology is still there, but it is now shaped like a tool, tailored to human needs. In the automotive industry, for example, we can imagine engineers, designers or production workers working in closer collaboration with machines. Human intuition, creativity and touch are involved, and the results are more personal and more meaningful.

In what ways can Industry 5.0 enhance personalization in products and services?

Personalization is already becoming increasingly important, and Industry 5.0 takes it one step further. Technology allows for more detailed customization in the production process – both in design and features. For example, one customer might prefer a greener engine, while another might focus on high performance. This level of harmonization creates an opportunity for brands to get much closer to customers.

How do you see the role of the workforce changing in an Industry 5.0 environment?

I think the role of the workforce is changing a lot. Routine work is increasingly being done by machines, while people are moving into more creative and strategic roles. In the automotive industry, this means that engineers and production line workers in particular are collaborating with machines in a more meaningful way. I can say that we are no longer talking about “manpower” but about “man-machine partnership”. I believe that jobs will become more fulfilling this way, because people are no longer just producing, they are putting the intelligence and creative ideas behind the production

What are the biggest challenges companies face when transitioning to Industry 5.0?

In fact, this transition is not easy. Aside from the investment costs, it requires a serious effort to adapt the existing infrastructure to Industry 5.0. In addition, employees need to adapt to these new technologies, which is also a major challenge. Employee resistance to change is another challenge. Strong leadership is essential to ensure a people-centred transformation in this process. Without the right vision and strategy, it is very difficult to overcome these challenges.

How can businesses address the skills gap to prepare their workforce for Industry 5.0?

The key point here is education. There is a need for training programs that will both increase employees’ technological skills and improve their creative problem-solving abilities. In the automotive sector, it is possible to expand the talent pool by collaborating with universities and vocational training centres. In addition, existing employees need to be prepared for this transformation. A culture that encourages continuous learning should be created. Digital learning tools or mentoring programs can be very useful for this.

What trends do you foresee in the next decade as Industry 5.0 continues to evolve?

I think human-machine collaboration will deepen in the future. Alternative fuel technologies, autonomous vehicles and personalized production processes are expected to become much more common in automotive. In addition, environmental sustainability is becoming a priority. For example, issues such as vehicle production with recyclable materials or production processes that minimize carbon footprint will become an even more important agenda item for companies. Diversity and inclusion in business life will also be an important trend.

What ethical considerations should businesses keep in mind while adopting new technologies?

Ethical issues should never be ignored. Especially in the automotive industry, data privacy is critical. Extreme care must be taken when handling personal information. In addition, companies need to focus on social responsibility projects and reskilling efforts to ensure that employees are not negatively affected by these technologies. The environment is also important; investing in methods to reduce carbon footprint is now a must. In short, ethical responsibilities should be at the center of the business.

What practical steps can organizations take to start integrating Industry 5.0 principles?

The first step is to plan technology to serve people. In automotive, this means setting up flexible production lines or introducing AI-enabled systems. But it should not stop there; comprehensive training programs should be organized for employees and steps should be taken to make them part of the transformation. In addition, building closer relationships with customers and tailoring production processes to their needs can also be an important step.

What excites you most about the future of Industry 5.0?

I think what excites me the most is the combination of human creativity and the power of machines. In this way, it seems possible to develop much more innovative and personal solutions in every field. There is also great potential in terms of sustainability. It sounds good that a greener, more human-oriented world will be created.