Siemens has introduced a new initiative called “Meet at the Machine,” bringing together machine builders, engineering software and automation technologies to improve productivity across the machine tool industry.

Announced in September 2026, the initiative focuses on connecting different stages of the manufacturing process, including engineering, CNC programming, simulation, virtual validation and machine execution. Siemens is working with TRAK Machine Tools as the first partner to develop the initiative.

One of the main objectives is to allow manufacturers to prepare production before a new machine is physically delivered and installed. Traditionally, programming, testing and operator preparation may begin after equipment arrives at the factory. This can create additional downtime during installation and commissioning.

The new approach shifts a significant part of this preparation work earlier in the machine lifecycle. Manufacturers can program, simulate and validate production processes while the machine is still being built. Once the equipment arrives, more of the production workflow can already be prepared.

Siemens describes the concept as a continuous digital thread connecting engineering software, automation hardware and machine expertise. This approach is particularly relevant to modern CNC production, where manufacturers increasingly depend on digital twins, simulation and software-based engineering tools to shorten commissioning and production ramp-up.

The company says the initiative could reduce ramp-up time by up to 50%. The first implementation with TRAK Machine Tools is designed to help customers become productive from day one rather than waiting until the complete machine installation process has finished.

For industrial automation professionals, the announcement demonstrates the increasing convergence between CNC control, PLC automation, engineering software and digital manufacturing. Instead of treating machine programming, automation configuration and production preparation as separate tasks, manufacturers can connect these activities into a unified workflow.

This development also reflects a broader trend toward virtual commissioning. By testing production processes in a digital environment before physical equipment becomes operational, engineering teams can identify potential programming or process issues earlier. This can reduce the amount of troubleshooting required during final commissioning.

The initiative is particularly relevant to machine builders and system integrators working with international manufacturing customers. Integrated engineering and automation workflows can simplify project handover and make machine configuration more repeatable across different production environments.

As manufacturers face pressure to increase flexibility while dealing with skilled-labor shortages and shorter production cycles, the ability to prepare manufacturing processes before machine installation could become increasingly valuable.

The Meet at the Machine initiative therefore represents another step toward a more connected industrial automation architecture, where CNC systems, PLCs, simulation tools, engineering software and production equipment exchange information throughout the complete machine lifecycle.