Machine Tool Influencers 2026: Praveen Kurup on Advanced Manufacturing

The machine tool industry is undergoing rapid transformation. Which technological trends—such as AI, automation, digital manufacturing or precision engineering—do you believe will have the greatest impact over the next five years, and how is your organisation preparing for them?

 The future of the machine tool industry will be driven by AI, automation, digital manufacturing, and precision engineering. These technologies will enable smarter production, higher productivity, predictive maintenance, superior quality, and greater manufacturing flexibility. At WFL Millturn Technologies, we are preparing for this transformation by integrating intelligent automation, digital connectivity, AI-driven process optimization, and advanced multi-task machining into our solutions. By combining multiple manufacturing technologies on a single platform, we help customers reduce cycle times, improve accuracy, and increase overall productivity. Our focus is to enable sustainable, data-driven, and globally competitive manufacturing.

India aspires to become a global manufacturing hub. What are the biggest opportunities and challenges for the Indian machine tool industry in achieving global competitiveness, and what changes are still required?

 India is at a defining moment in its manufacturing journey. With strong government initiatives such as Make in India, the PLI schemes, and rapid growth in aerospace, defence, energy, railways, and precision engineering, the country has the potential to become one of the world’s leading manufacturing hubs. The next step, however, is to shift the focus from low-cost manufacturing to high-value manufacturing. Global competitiveness will depend on adopting advanced multi-task machining, automation, digital manufacturing, and Industry 4.0 technologies that improve productivity, quality, and sustainability. The biggest challenge is not technology availability, but its adoption. Greater investment in skilled manpower, process engineering, R&D, and modern manufacturing practices is essential. Manufacturers must evaluate machine tools based on productivity, lifecycle value, and total cost of ownership, rather than only the initial purchase price. At WFL Millturn Technologies, we believe India’s greatest strength lies in combining world-class technology with its engineering talent. With the right investments in innovation, automation, and skills, India is well positioned to become a global benchmark for precision manufacturing.

Innovation today extends beyond products. How is your organisation driving innovation across manufacturing processes, customer experience, sustainability, workforce development or digital transformation?

 At WFL Millturn Technologies, innovation goes beyond machines. We combine advanced multi-task machining, automation, and digital technologies to help customers achieve higher productivity, superior quality, and lower manufacturing costs. Our innovation is equally focused on customer success through strong application engineering, training, and comprehensive lifecycle support. By promoting energy-efficient manufacturing, minimizing rejections, reducing consumable costs, and continuously developing skilled talent, we enable our customers to build smarter, more sustainable, and globally competitive manufacturing operations.

Manufacturing success increasingly depends on collaboration across OEMs, suppliers, technology providers, academia and startups. How do you see partnerships shaping the future of manufacturing, and what role does your organisation play in this ecosystem?

 Manufacturing excellence can no longer be achieved in isolation. The future belongs to strong partnerships between OEMs, suppliers, technology providers, academia, and research institutions that accelerate innovation and technology adoption. At WFL Millturn Technologies, we work closely with customers and technology partners to develop integrated manufacturing solutions that improve productivity, quality, and sustainability. By sharing expertise, providing advanced application support, and fostering continuous knowledge exchange, we help build a stronger and more globally competitive manufacturing ecosystem.

Looking ahead to 2030, what will define a successful machine tool company? Which capabilities, technologies or leadership qualities will differentiate the industry’s future leaders?

 By 2030, successful machine tool companies will be defined not only by the quality of their machines, but by their ability to deliver complete manufacturing solutions. Automation, digitalization, AI-driven process optimization, sustainability, and exceptional customer support will be the key differentiators. The future leaders will be those who continuously innovate, invest in skilled talent, and work closely with customers to improve productivity, flexibility, and long-term value. At WFL Millturn Technologies, these principles are already at the core of our strategy, enabling our customers to stay globally competitive.

As one of the Machine Tool Influencers 2026, what message would you like to share with the next generation of manufacturing professionals and entrepreneurs who will shape India’s industrial future?

 Manufacturing is no longer just about making parts—it’s about creating innovation, solving complex engineering challenges, and shaping the future of industry. My message to the next generation is to embrace continuous learning, think globally, and never stop innovating. India has the talent and the opportunity to become a global manufacturing leader. By combining technical excellence, digital skills, and a passion for innovation, young professionals and entrepreneurs can build world-class companies and make India a preferred destination for advanced manufacturing.

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