# Disappointed with AI, Ford moves to re-hire 350 former workers > Source: > Published: 2026-06-29 19:17:43+00:00 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](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-06-25/ford-has-been-rehiring-quality-inspectors-after-ai-fell-short). 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.