|
Global State of Smart Manufacturing Report finds cybersecurity is now the top external concern after economic conditions
MILWAUKEE, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), the world's largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, today released the cybersecurity findings from its 10th annual "State of Smart Manufacturing Report." Drawing insights from more than 1,500 manufacturing leaders across 17 of the top manufacturing countries, the report reflects how cybersecurity is becoming a central business issue. One third of respondents have direct information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) cybersecurity responsibilities.
As manufacturers advance smart operations, the integration between IT and OT increases the risk of cyberattacks. The report shows that manufacturers are beginning to use artificial intelligence (AI) to help manage these risks to strengthen protection.
"Cybersecurity is no longer just a technology issue — it's a boardroom issue," said Stephen Ford, vice president and chief information security officer at Rockwell Automation. "As IT and OT become more connected, the attack surface is expanding. Our latest research confirms what we're seeing firsthand: Cyber risk is now one of the top threats to manufacturing growth. You can't protect tomorrow's enterprise with yesterday's tools. AI is a critical part of the modern security stack, enabling manufacturers to detect threats in real time, maintain productivity, and stay ahead in an increasingly aggressive threat landscape."
Key global cybersecurity findings include:
- Cyber threats are among the most serious external risks. Cybersecurity (30%) now ranks among the top external risks, second only to inflation and economic growth (34%).
- Security teams accelerate AI adoption. 61% of cybersecurity and IT professionals plan AI and machine learning (ML) adoption for security in the next 12 months, outpacing general manufacturing by 12 percentage points.
- Cybersecurity tops smart manufacturing use cases. 38% of manufacturers plan to use data collected from current sources to drive protection.
- IT/OT security takes center stage. 48% of cybersecurity professionals identified securing converging architecture as a key to positive outcomes over the next five years, compared to just 37% on average.
- Cyber readiness is a growing talent priority. More than half (53%) of respondents from companies of $30 billion or more identified cybersecurity practices and standards as extremely important skill sets, compared to 47% of all respondents.
Workforce development continues to be a major hurdle. A shortage of skilled talent, training challenges and rising labor costs remain significant barriers to competition. As manufacturers recruit the next generation, cybersecurity and analytical skills are also becoming hiring priorities, reinforcing the need to align technical innovation with human development.
"Cybersecurity has become a business enabler," said Ford. "It's no longer just about preventing threats, it's about empowering transformation with confidence. The most forward-thinking manufacturers are proactively leveraging advanced technologies like AI to stay ahead of evolving risks."
The full findings of the report can be found here.
Methodology
Rockwell's 10th annual State of Smart Manufacturing Report analyzed feedback from 1,560 respondents from 17 of the top manufacturing countries with roles from management up to the C-suite and was conducted in association with Rockwell Automation and Sapio Research. The survey sampled from a range of industries including Consumer Packaged Goods, Food & Beverage, Automotive, Semiconductor, Energy, Life Sciences, and more. With a balanced distribution of company sizes with revenues spanning $100 million to over $30 billion, it offers a wide breadth of manufacturing business perspectives. Note that data and statistics referenced in this release may be sourced from the raw survey data and not included in the report itself.
About Rockwell Automation
Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), is a global leader in industrial automation and digital transformation. We connect the imaginations of people with the potential of technology to expand what is humanly possible, making the world more productive and more sustainable. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Rockwell Automation employs approximately 27,000 problem solvers dedicated to our customers in more than 100 countries as of fiscal year end 2024. To learn more about how we are bringing the Connected Enterprise to life across industrial enterprises, visit www.rockwellautomation.com.
Global State of Smart Manufacturing Report finds cybersecurity is now the top external concern after economic conditions
MILWAUKEE, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), the world's largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, today released the cybersecurity findings from its 10th annual "State of Smart Manufacturing Report." Drawing insights from more than 1,500 manufacturing leaders across 17 of the top manufacturing countries, the report reflects how cybersecurity is becoming a central business issue. One third of respondents have direct information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) cybersecurity responsibilities.
As manufacturers advance smart operations, the integration between IT and OT increases the risk of cyberattacks. The report shows that manufacturers are beginning to use artificial intelligence (AI) to help manage these risks to strengthen protection.
"Cybersecurity is no longer just a technology issue — it's a boardroom issue," said Stephen Ford, vice president and chief information security officer at Rockwell Automation. "As IT and OT become more connected, the attack surface is expanding. Our latest research confirms what we're seeing firsthand: Cyber risk is now one of the top threats to manufacturing growth. You can't protect tomorrow's enterprise with yesterday's tools. AI is a critical part of the modern security stack, enabling manufacturers to detect threats in real time, maintain productivity, and stay ahead in an increasingly aggressive threat landscape."
Key global cybersecurity findings include:
- Cyber threats are among the most serious external risks. Cybersecurity (30%) now ranks among the top external risks, second only to inflation and economic growth (34%).
- Security teams accelerate AI adoption. 61% of cybersecurity and IT professionals plan AI and machine learning (ML) adoption for security in the next 12 months, outpacing general manufacturing by 12 percentage points.
- Cybersecurity tops smart manufacturing use cases. 38% of manufacturers plan to use data collected from current sources to drive protection.
- IT/OT security takes center stage. 48% of cybersecurity professionals identified securing converging architecture as a key to positive outcomes over the next five years, compared to just 37% on average.
- Cyber readiness is a growing talent priority. More than half (53%) of respondents from companies of $30 billion or more identified cybersecurity practices and standards as extremely important skill sets, compared to 47% of all respondents.
Workforce development continues to be a major hurdle. A shortage of skilled talent, training challenges and rising labor costs remain significant barriers to competition. As manufacturers recruit the next generation, cybersecurity and analytical skills are also becoming hiring priorities, reinforcing the need to align technical innovation with human development.
"Cybersecurity has become a business enabler," said Ford. "It's no longer just about preventing threats, it's about empowering transformation with confidence. The most forward-thinking manufacturers are proactively leveraging advanced technologies like AI to stay ahead of evolving risks."
The full findings of the report can be found here.
Methodology
Rockwell's 10th annual State of Smart Manufacturing Report analyzed feedback from 1,560 respondents from 17 of the top manufacturing countries with roles from management up to the C-suite and was conducted in association with Rockwell Automation and Sapio Research. The survey sampled from a range of industries including Consumer Packaged Goods, Food & Beverage, Automotive, Semiconductor, Energy, Life Sciences, and more. With a balanced distribution of company sizes with revenues spanning $100 million to over $30 billion, it offers a wide breadth of manufacturing business perspectives. Note that data and statistics referenced in this release may be sourced from the raw survey data and not included in the report itself.
About Rockwell Automation
Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), is a global leader in industrial automation and digital transformation. We connect the imaginations of people with the potential of technology to expand what is humanly possible, making the world more productive and more sustainable. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Rockwell Automation employs approximately 27,000 problem solvers dedicated to our customers in more than 100 countries as of fiscal year end 2024. To learn more about how we are bringing the Connected Enterprise to life across industrial enterprises, visit www.rockwellautomation.com.
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
61% of Cybersecurity Professionals Plan AI Adoption as Manufacturing Faces Growing Cyber Risks
|
- DayOne commits cumulative investment of RM28+ billion to Malaysia and aims to scale local operations to largest global footprint, accounting for over 50% of firm's workforce expansion by end-2026
- DayOne's expansion in Malaysia to create 5,000+ local jobs across the supply chain, as well as 200+ high-value roles through the expansion of its Global Shared Services Center in Kuala Lumpur; Regional Operations and Training Hub in Johor to train 1,000+ skilled data center engineers
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- DayOne Data Centers Limited ("DayOne"), a Singapore-headquartered global hyperscale data center platform, today announced a commitment of RM28+ billion cumulative investment in Malaysia by the end of 2026, cementing its leadership position in the country's data center market and reinforcing its long-term commitment to support Malaysia's role as a leading regional digital hub.
DayOne also announced plans to scale Malaysia into its largest global operational footprint, with the country accounting for over 50% of the firm's total headcount growth in 2026, as it aims to double its workforce and expand toward 1,200 direct jobs in Malaysia. The expanded presence is expected to generate over 5,000 jobs across the supply chain ecosystem. In particular, the Phase II expansion of its Global Shared Services Center (GSSC) in Kuala Lumpur, is also set to create more than 200 high-value roles across finance, procurement, investment, and corporate functions.
The company also unveiled the launch of two talent programs, aimed at cultivating young talent through its internship and graduate pathways. These programs are designed to provide early exposure, hands-on experience, and accelerated career development for high-potential individuals entering the digital infrastructure sector. As part of its efforts to empowering Malaysia's digital ecosystem, DayOne will also train over 1,000 data center engineers to support AI-ready infrastructure at its Regional Operations and Training Hub in Johor.
The commitment and talent initiatives were announced at the inaugural DayOne Tech & AI Career Expo held today in Kuala Lumpur and witnessed by representatives from the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), Social Security Organisation (PERKESO), and TalentCorp Malaysia. The event brought together over 1,000 participants, 30 exhibiting companies, and 13 Malaysian universities to connect high-potential talent with more than 500 roles across the technology and AI ecosystem.
"Malaysia is not just a market for DayOne; it is a long-term commitment and a cornerstone of our regional strategy," said Jamie Khoo, CEO of DayOne. "The RM28 billion cumulative investment and the hiring and talent development we are announcing today are backed by real infrastructure: a regional operations hub in Johor, an expanded shared services center in Kuala Lumpur, and now two talent programs that will connect Malaysia's best and brightest to the opportunities being created across the SIJORI corridor. Our role extends beyond infrastructure, as we see DayOne playing an active role in contributing to the digital backbone that enables Malaysia's long-term economic growth."
A video message from YAB Dato' Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, underscored the importance of continued collaboration between government and industry in developing both digital infrastructure and local talent.
"Government, industry, and academia must work together. We do not just create jobs, we create opportunities. And more importantly, we build talent that can compete globally. That is why initiatives like the DayOne Tech and AI Career Expo really matter. This is where ambition meets opportunities. Preparing our youth not just to find jobs, but to become creators, innovators, and leaders of the future. May this platform be the beginning of something bigger for you and for Malaysia," said YAB Dato' Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Expo was designed as a platform not only for employment, but for career enablement and ecosystem engagement. Throughout the day, attendees participated in leadership keynotes, government and industry panels, and practical sessions covering workforce development, career pathways, and real-world applications of AI and technology. Participation from 13 universities, including leading institutions such as Universiti Malaya, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, further strengthened connections between education and industry.
The Career Expo reflects DayOne's commitment to not only infrastructure investment but also talent development, connecting high-potential candidates to real opportunities across the ecosystem. MIDA, MDEC, PERKESO, and TalentCorp participated in the event as co-partners, with YB Howard Lee, Member of the National TVET Council and Member of Parliament for Ipoh Timor, delivering remarks. YB Lee Ting Han, Johor State Executive Council (EXCO) Member and Chairman of the Johor State Investment, Trade, Consumer Affairs and Human Resources Committee, and YB Ng Sze Han, Selangor State Executive Councilor for Investment, Trade, and Mobility, also gave video remarks at the event. The Expo is a reflection of a shared vision between DayOne and Malaysia, as the company works in partnership with government agencies to support Malaysia's position as a leading regional digital hub.
Following the inaugural Tech & AI Career Expo in Malaysia, DayOne will take its talent engagement initiatives across the region, with the next event in Thailand later in April, focused on connecting infrastructure investment with workforce readiness and create sustainable pathways into high-growth careers in digital infrastructure and AI industries.
About DayOne Data Centers
DayOne is a Singapore-headquartered global digital infrastructure platform that develops and operates next-gen data centers for industry leaders who demand reliable, cost-effective and rapidly scalable solutions. Its facilities empower hyperscalers and large enterprises to achieve fast deployment and enhance connectivity, driving transformative engagement and innovation as we shape the future of industries. DayOne's data center developments span key markets, including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, Hong Kong SAR, and Finland.
- DayOne commits cumulative investment of RM28+ billion to Malaysia and aims to scale local operations to largest global footprint, accounting for over 50% of firm's workforce expansion by end-2026
- DayOne's expansion in Malaysia to create 5,000+ local jobs across the supply chain, as well as 200+ high-value roles through the expansion of its Global Shared Services Center in Kuala Lumpur; Regional Operations and Training Hub in Johor to train 1,000+ skilled data center engineers
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- DayOne Data Centers Limited ("DayOne"), a Singapore-headquartered global hyperscale data center platform, today announced a commitment of RM28+ billion cumulative investment in Malaysia by the end of 2026, cementing its leadership position in the country's data center market and reinforcing its long-term commitment to support Malaysia's role as a leading regional digital hub.
DayOne also announced plans to scale Malaysia into its largest global operational footprint, with the country accounting for over 50% of the firm's total headcount growth in 2026, as it aims to double its workforce and expand toward 1,200 direct jobs in Malaysia. The expanded presence is expected to generate over 5,000 jobs across the supply chain ecosystem. In particular, the Phase II expansion of its Global Shared Services Center (GSSC) in Kuala Lumpur, is also set to create more than 200 high-value roles across finance, procurement, investment, and corporate functions.
The company also unveiled the launch of two talent programs, aimed at cultivating young talent through its internship and graduate pathways. These programs are designed to provide early exposure, hands-on experience, and accelerated career development for high-potential individuals entering the digital infrastructure sector. As part of its efforts to empowering Malaysia's digital ecosystem, DayOne will also train over 1,000 data center engineers to support AI-ready infrastructure at its Regional Operations and Training Hub in Johor.
The commitment and talent initiatives were announced at the inaugural DayOne Tech & AI Career Expo held today in Kuala Lumpur and witnessed by representatives from the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), Social Security Organisation (PERKESO), and TalentCorp Malaysia. The event brought together over 1,000 participants, 30 exhibiting companies, and 13 Malaysian universities to connect high-potential talent with more than 500 roles across the technology and AI ecosystem.
"Malaysia is not just a market for DayOne; it is a long-term commitment and a cornerstone of our regional strategy," said Jamie Khoo, CEO of DayOne. "The RM28 billion cumulative investment and the hiring and talent development we are announcing today are backed by real infrastructure: a regional operations hub in Johor, an expanded shared services center in Kuala Lumpur, and now two talent programs that will connect Malaysia's best and brightest to the opportunities being created across the SIJORI corridor. Our role extends beyond infrastructure, as we see DayOne playing an active role in contributing to the digital backbone that enables Malaysia's long-term economic growth."
A video message from YAB Dato' Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, underscored the importance of continued collaboration between government and industry in developing both digital infrastructure and local talent.
"Government, industry, and academia must work together. We do not just create jobs, we create opportunities. And more importantly, we build talent that can compete globally. That is why initiatives like the DayOne Tech and AI Career Expo really matter. This is where ambition meets opportunities. Preparing our youth not just to find jobs, but to become creators, innovators, and leaders of the future. May this platform be the beginning of something bigger for you and for Malaysia," said YAB Dato' Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Expo was designed as a platform not only for employment, but for career enablement and ecosystem engagement. Throughout the day, attendees participated in leadership keynotes, government and industry panels, and practical sessions covering workforce development, career pathways, and real-world applications of AI and technology. Participation from 13 universities, including leading institutions such as Universiti Malaya, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, further strengthened connections between education and industry.
The Career Expo reflects DayOne's commitment to not only infrastructure investment but also talent development, connecting high-potential candidates to real opportunities across the ecosystem. MIDA, MDEC, PERKESO, and TalentCorp participated in the event as co-partners, with YB Howard Lee, Member of the National TVET Council and Member of Parliament for Ipoh Timor, delivering remarks. YB Lee Ting Han, Johor State Executive Council (EXCO) Member and Chairman of the Johor State Investment, Trade, Consumer Affairs and Human Resources Committee, and YB Ng Sze Han, Selangor State Executive Councilor for Investment, Trade, and Mobility, also gave video remarks at the event. The Expo is a reflection of a shared vision between DayOne and Malaysia, as the company works in partnership with government agencies to support Malaysia's position as a leading regional digital hub.
Following the inaugural Tech & AI Career Expo in Malaysia, DayOne will take its talent engagement initiatives across the region, with the next event in Thailand later in April, focused on connecting infrastructure investment with workforce readiness and create sustainable pathways into high-growth careers in digital infrastructure and AI industries.
About DayOne Data Centers
DayOne is a Singapore-headquartered global digital infrastructure platform that develops and operates next-gen data centers for industry leaders who demand reliable, cost-effective and rapidly scalable solutions. Its facilities empower hyperscalers and large enterprises to achieve fast deployment and enhance connectivity, driving transformative engagement and innovation as we shape the future of industries. DayOne's data center developments span key markets, including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, Hong Kong SAR, and Finland.
** This press release is distributed by PR Newswire through automated distribution system, for which the client assumes full responsibility. **
DayOne Announces RM28+ Billion Commitment and Talent Initiatives in Malaysia at Inaugural Tech & AI Career Expo
DayOne Announces RM28+ Billion Commitment and Talent Initiatives in Malaysia at Inaugural Tech & AI Career Expo
DayOne Announces RM28+ Billion Commitment and Talent Initiatives in Malaysia at Inaugural Tech & AI Career Expo
DayOne Announces RM28+ Billion Commitment and Talent Initiatives in Malaysia at Inaugural Tech & AI Career Expo
