Ford has rehired approximately 350 experienced engineers after the company’s investment in AI and automated quality control systems failed to meet expectations, according to Bloomberg. In short, the technology did not detect enough problems.
“We mistakenly believed that we could create a high-quality product simply by introducing artificial intelligence and inputting our design requirements,” Charles Poon, head of Ford’s hardware development, told Bloomberg.
The rehired quality inspectors — known internally as “gray beard” engineers for their experience and years with the company — are now working to identify defects before components reach the factories.
Still, Ford is not abandoning AI completely; the experienced engineers will be asked to help train younger employees and improve the company’s AI tools.