AEM Futures Council

Without Disruption and Innovation, Progress Isn’t Possible

The global impact of non-road equipment manufacturing on our communities and our economy is well known. Taking that knowledge and the strong commitment of our 1,000-plus members to make a difference in our world, our AEM Futures Council has worked to tackle the disruptive trends poised to shape the industry of tomorrow.

However, thought leadership needs to be more than generating a list of possible disruptors. To AEM, thought leadership requires actively engaging in critical conversations that point toward a consensus opinion on where the future is headed. Additionally, it means outlining the role of our industry in that future.

That's why our Council and its five specialized Vision Teams embraced a role as an “early-alert system” for the association and its members by monitoring and exploring critical issues poised to impact the non-road equipment manufacturing industry in the present and the future:

Exploring disruptive trends impacting our industry

Autonomy and Automation

Autonomy and Automation

Understanding the technologies that mitigate the need for direct human involvement in tasks and decision-making
Data and Artificial Intelligence

Data and Artificial Intelligence

Understanding the how and why behind generating insights, supporting decision-making, and enabling intelligent actions
Economics and Geopolitical

Economic and Geopolitical

Understanding the significant forces that influence industry competitiveness in an increasingly interconnected world
Power and Emissions

Power and Emissions

Understanding the energy systems and solutions that help meet performance demands, regulatory requirements, and sustainability objectives
Workforce Empowerment

Workforce Empowerment

Understanding the people, skills, and capabilities that enable a resilient, adaptable, and high-performing industry workforce

Chaired by Dr. Ray Gallant of Volvo Construction Equipment North America, the AEM Futures Council brings together industry leaders and subject matter experts to identify disruptive trends and help members prepare for future challenges and opportunities.

Supported by AEM's Industry Sector leadership teams, the Council delivers value through thought leadership, strategic initiatives, industry insights, and member engagement opportunities designed to strengthen the industry's long-term success.

One of the Council's most significant achievements was leading the development of two major industry thought leadership initiatives. These landmark whitepapers explored transformative technologies and emerging trends that are reshaping agriculture, construction, and the broader equipment manufacturing landscape:

Future of Food Production

Future of Food Production

The collective expertise of the AEM Visions Team and Futures Council helps break down 13 trends that could reshape how food is produced, from technology and consumer behavior to supply chain and the environment.
Future of Building

Future of Building

The collective expertise of the AEM Visions Team and Futures Council helps break down 10 trends that could change the way construction companies operate. Alternative power, autonomous machinery, and more are explored.

Stay informed and connected:

AEM Insights and Resources

AEM Insights and Resources

For more than 130 years, AEM has helped advance equipment manufacturing and the agriculture and construction customers our industry serves by providing uniquely valuable insights and timely, relevant resources.
AEM News and Updates

AEM News and Updates

Through its twice weekly AEM Industry Advisor newsletter, the association provides information about AEM activities, priorities and initiatives, as well as in-depth information on equipment manufacturing, agriculture, construction, and more.
AEM Leadership Groups

AEM Leadership Groups

These groups connect like-minded executives who manufacture similar products or are impacted by similar issues. AEM Leadership Groups facilitate communication among executives, those working directly on the issues and association staff to develop coordinated and effective industry solutions.