AWL Tech Days 2026: Leading the Next Transition

Manufacturing is changing rapidly. New technologies are emerging, productivity demands continue to grow, and manufacturers are constantly challenged to stay competitive.To explore these challenges and opportunities together, more than 100 customers gathered at AWL's headquarters in Harderwijk for the 18th edition of AWL Tech Days 2026. Over two days, customers, partners, and industry leaders exchanged experiences, explored innovations, and discussed how to shape the future of manufacturing.

At AWL, we believe the future of manufacturing is built through collaboration. That's why AWL Tech Days is more than an event; it's a platform where customers, partners, and industry experts come together to share knowledge, discuss challenges, and explore practical solutions.

Throughout the two days, there was plenty of room for meaningful conversations, new perspectives, and the exchange of ideas. After all, while technology continues to evolve, progress is ultimately driven by the people behind it.

Insights from industry leaders
This year’s program featured a strong line-up of speakers, each offering a unique perspective on innovation and change.

Frederik Nieuwenhuys (Picnic) shared the Picnic story, including insights on scaling operations in a fast-moving, data-driven environment. Michael Juergens (KUKA Robotics) presented a forward-looking vision on the shift from deterministic automation to AI-driven, intent-based robotics, highlighting the move towards autonomous, orchestrated systems. Erik Snoeijen (Bosch Rexroth) showed how established companies can successfully transform by focusing on strong leadership, clear positioning, and a renewed customer promise.

Leadership under pressure
A key highlight was the keynote by Dominique Schreinemachers. Combining her experience as a fighter pilot and behavioral psychologist, she delivered powerful lessons on decision-making and resilience under pressure.

Her story reinforced an important message: successfully navigating change is not only about technology, but also about people, mindset, and the ability to perform when it matters most.

AWL Insights: from innovation to application
Alongside external perspectives, AWL’s own experts shared how innovation is being translated into real-world production impact.

Wouter Zweers highlighted the latest developments in welding automation and how they are transforming production environments. AWL combines expertise in automated arc, laser, and spot welding to develop high-performance production lines. Innovations such as scan-to-weld enable automated robot programming, reduce lead times, and increase production flexibility.  This opens new possibilities for applications traditionally considered difficult to automate, including thick plate welding and smaller series production. In addition, AI-based quality control is helping manufacturers create more consistent, efficient, and future-proof production processes.

Jaap van der Blonk focused on the role of material handling automation. Recent innovations are unlocking new opportunities, particularly in emerging markets where requirements are more demanding and distinctive. These developments call for further advancements in robotics and system integration. Ultimately, success depends on bringing technology, processes, and people together a key theme throughout AWL Tech Days.

Real conversations that drive progress
Beyond the presentations, the real value of AWL Tech Days lies in the conversations. Customers and partners shared real-world challenges and solutions, creating an open environment for practical learning and exchange.

The evening program offered an opportunity to continue the conversations in a more informal setting, helping to strengthen existing relationships and create new connections.

Moving forward together
The AWL Tech Days 2026 confirmed one thing: the future of manufacturing is being shaped today. Successfully navigating that future requires collaboration, innovation, and strong partnerships.

That belief is exactly what AWL Tech Days is all about: bringing customers, partners, and industry experts together to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and shape the future of manufacturing.

Curious to experience the atmosphere and highlights yourself? Watch the aftermovie and discover the event in action.