At Bennett & Pless, we recognize that the pace of innovation in advanced manufacturing is nothing short of extraordinary. From robotics to automation and rapidly evolving production systems, manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, and the buildings that support these operations must keep up.
During a recent advanced manufacturing conference, our Market Sector Lead for Advanced Manufacturing, David Wright, joined a panel discussion exploring the critical role structural engineers play in designing facilities that not only meet today’s needs, but are also prepared for tomorrow’s challenges.
Future-Ready Facilities Require Forward Thinking
One key message he shared: technological change isn’t just a possibility, it’s a certainty. Facilities must be built with flexibility in mind. David reflected on how, over the span of his career, the way tires are transported within a plant has shifted dramatically, from forklifts with manual clamps, to wire-guided robots, to today’s fully autonomous systems that navigate facilities with advanced sensors.
What was once unimaginable is now standard. And that transformation underscores the importance of designing buildings that can evolve alongside technology.
Collaboration Drives Smarter Design
Many of the panel’s audience questions centered on a common challenge: how to work with owners who may not fully grasp the critical role information sharing plays in the design process. We believe it’s part of our responsibility as engineers to help educate project stakeholders. The earlier and more clearly the owner communicates their goals, and where uncertainty still exists, the more agile and future-ready the design can be.
That kind of collaboration must extend beyond the structural team. We approach every project holistically, coordinating closely with mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineers, architects, and contractors. This comprehensive design strategy is essential for ensuring that facilities can adapt to equipment upgrades or layout changes in the years to come.
Designing for the Unknown
Designing for the present is straightforward; designing for the future is far more complex. David shared insights on how structural systems can accommodate uncertainty by allowing space for future utilities, supporting heavier or adaptable equipment loads, and anticipating layout changes driven by automation.
One past project illustrated this clearly: a manufacturing facility that underwent four rounds of equipment redesign during the design phase alone. These changes stemmed from the manufacturer’s continuous improvements, but required our team to remain nimble and collaborative throughout the process. That kind of adaptability must be built into the DNA of the design.
Communication Is the Game-Changer
Ultimately, the success of advanced manufacturing projects hinges on engaged, open communication. It’s no longer acceptable, or effective, for stakeholders to remain passive during weekly project meetings. In today’s remote-first environment, staying visible and connected has never been more important.
Some of our clients now require cameras on for all virtual meetings to ensure everyone is fully present. While a small gesture, it reflects a broader principle we embrace at Bennett & Pless: when everyone is invested in the conversation, better decisions are made, and better buildings result.
Looking Ahead
As the needs of advanced manufacturing clients continue to evolve, so will the role of structural engineering. At Bennett & Pless, we’re committed to staying ahead of that curve, by designing with flexibility, fostering true collaboration, and never losing sight of the bigger picture.
Click here to learn more about our manufacturing experience.
Contact
"*" indicates required fields