The SKZ Plastics Center is strengthening the strategic use of artificial intelligence within its own organization. Since October, Dr. Frédéric Achereiner has been coordinating these activities within the SKZ Group in his role as AI Manager. The goal is to make greater use of existing expertise in research and digitalization for its own processes while simultaneously developing insights and solutions for companies in the plastics industry.
The SKZ has many years of experience in the fields of digitalization, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. For years, the institute has been developing data-driven methods and AI applications for the plastics industry through various research projects. A dedicated research group also focuses on digital infrastructures, data analysis, and AI-supported processes.
Coordination of AI Implementation
With the new coordination office, the SKZ is increasingly applying this expertise to its own organization. Among other things, the goal is to streamline workflows, reduce the workload on employees, and make existing knowledge more readily available. At the same time, the aim is to create a practical testing ground from which transferable approaches can be developed for other companies. In the future, the insights gained are also intended to be incorporated into the SKZ’s research projects, continuing education programs, and services.
As AI Manager, Frédéric Achereiner ensures transparency regarding ongoing and planned AI activities. He coordinates collaboration among the departments involved, assists in identifying and prioritizing suitable use cases, and oversees their implementation. In doing so, he serves as an interface between users, the IT department, and internal and external service providers. At the same time, he promotes the exchange of knowledge and experience within the SKZ Group.
Participation in AI Transfer Plus
An important component is participation in the Bavaria-wide funding and transfer program “AI Transfer Plus.” Over a period of nine months, the SKZ will be supported by the AI Regional Center at the University of Applied Sciences Würzburg-Schweinfurt. The program provides up-to-date methods, expert knowledge, and practical tools that can be used to systematically identify AI potential and develop concrete applications. In addition, it supports the SKZ in developing a long-term AI strategy and in sustainably embedding AI within the organization.
A key factor for success is the early involvement of employees. Together with AI champions, the program aims to identify needs across various departments, develop suitable solutions, and share practical experiences within the group. In addition to concrete benefits, the focus is also on data protection, IT security, training, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence.
“The best ideas for using AI come from those who are familiar with daily processes and challenges. That’s why I want to work with the AI champions and the entire workforce to develop solutions that meaningfully support our day-to-day work,” explains Achereiner. The experience gained through this process will also be used to pass on this knowledge to the plastics industry as a research, education, and technology transfer partner.