How to build everything, with Flex CEO Revathi Advaithi

Automation Impact

Automation is reshaping the manufacturing landscape at Flex, as Revathi Advaithi explains. She highlights the shift from low-skilled labor in countries like China to highly skilled roles in the U.S., driven by automation. This transition, however, presents challenges such as a significant skills gap and the need for reskilling the workforce 1. Revathi emphasizes the importance of technical education and affordable capital for small and medium businesses to thrive in this new environment.

It's not as simple as just saying I can hire five people with the skills and then it's all going to be great.

--- Revathi Advaithi

Nilay Patel also notes the broader implications of automation on global labor policies and the necessity for a strategic approach to education and labor policy 2.

   

Smart Design

Flex is at the forefront of integrating smart technologies into traditional products, as Revathi Advaithi discusses. She describes how Flex collaborates with customers to design products that incorporate advanced features like noise cancellation and seamless integration of electronics 3. This approach allows Flex to innovate in both product design and manufacturing capabilities, ensuring they can produce at scale.

We have to work on all those aspects of it with the customer to design that particular product.

--- Revathi Advaithi

Revathi also mentions the trend of adding Bluetooth and wireless capabilities to everyday items, emphasizing the need for a thoughtful approach to smart product design 4.