Month: February 2026

Originally published on CVS Health

CVS Health® recently worked with Ronald McDonald House® Global to support families during their children’s medical journeys during the holiday season. On December 3, the company collaborated with Philadelphia home decor creator Meghan Gallagher to decorate the first-ever Ronald McDonald House in Philadelphia with seasonal products from Joyward™, a new collection of decor, gifts and more just introduced by CVS Health.  

Common areas were decked out with Joyward’s cozy home accents and festive pieces, including soft throws and patterned pillows, colorful nutcrackers, ceramic trees and more, to help bring cheer to Ronald McDonald House families. CVS Health also provided curated care packages of Well Market™ snacks and personal care essentials. To close the evening, families came together to create ornaments and decorate the floor-to-ceiling dining room windows alongside CVS Health and Ronald McDonald House representatives.

“We believe that health extends beyond clinical care – it’s about supporting families during life’s most challenging moments,” said Jenny McColloch, VP, Community Impact and Chief Sustainability Officer, CVS Health. “Our work with Ronald McDonald House reflects that commitment. By combining our resources with Ronald McDonald House’s incredible work, we’re helping families stay close to their children’s medical care, while creating opportunities for our colleagues to make a meaningful impact in their communities. Together, we’re building healthier, stronger futures – one family at a time.”

The Philadelphia event is part of a longer-term collaboration between CVS Health and Ronald McDonald House Global. Through a $600,000 grant, CVS Health colleagues across 10 regions will be able to participate in organized volunteer activities that focus on supporting Ronald McDonald House families, such as preparing meals and hosting activity nights. Colleagues nationwide will also have the opportunity to create their own volunteer events – empowering them to help make an impact in their own communities and advancing the two organizations’ shared commitment to supporting better health outcomes.

“Ronald McDonald House provides nearly 90 percent of all pediatric-only temporary housing for families in the United States, according to research from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. However, we estimate that we are only meeting 55 percent of current demand for our services in the U.S.,” said Katie Fitzgerald, President and Chief Executive Officer at Ronald McDonald House Global. “CVS Health will help Ronald McDonald House improve health outcomes by enabling more families to stay together and be involved in their child’s care.”

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About CVS Health

CVS Health is a leading health solutions company building a world of health around every consumer, wherever they are. As of September 30, 2025, the Company had approximately 9,000 retail pharmacy locations, more than 1,000 walk-in and primary care medical clinics and a leading pharmacy benefits manager with approximately 87 million plan members. The Company also serves an estimated more than 37 million people through traditional, voluntary and consumer-directed health insurance products and related services, including highly rated Medicare Advantage offerings and a leading standalone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. The Company’s integrated model uses personalized, technology driven services to connect people to simply better health, increasing access to quality care, delivering better outcomes, and lowering overall costs.About CVS Health

About Ronald McDonald House:

Ronald McDonald House® is an independent, nonprofit 501(C)(3) organization that cares for families when they have children who are ill or injured. Through a global network of 250+ independently operated Chapters in 60+ countries and regions, we surround families with the resources, services and support they need, removing barriers so they can be at the heart of their child’s care and ensure the best possible health outcomes. For more information, visit ronaldmcdonaldhouse.org.

Originally published on CVS Health

CVS Health® recently worked with Ronald McDonald House® Global to support families during their children’s medical journeys during the holiday season. On December 3, the company collaborated with Philadelphia home decor creator Meghan Gallagher to decorate the first-ever Ronald McDonald House in Philadelphia with seasonal products from Joyward™, a new collection of decor, gifts and more just introduced by CVS Health.  

Common areas were decked out with Joyward’s cozy home accents and festive pieces, including soft throws and patterned pillows, colorful nutcrackers, ceramic trees and more, to help bring cheer to Ronald McDonald House families. CVS Health also provided curated care packages of Well Market™ snacks and personal care essentials. To close the evening, families came together to create ornaments and decorate the floor-to-ceiling dining room windows alongside CVS Health and Ronald McDonald House representatives.

“We believe that health extends beyond clinical care – it’s about supporting families during life’s most challenging moments,” said Jenny McColloch, VP, Community Impact and Chief Sustainability Officer, CVS Health. “Our work with Ronald McDonald House reflects that commitment. By combining our resources with Ronald McDonald House’s incredible work, we’re helping families stay close to their children’s medical care, while creating opportunities for our colleagues to make a meaningful impact in their communities. Together, we’re building healthier, stronger futures – one family at a time.”

The Philadelphia event is part of a longer-term collaboration between CVS Health and Ronald McDonald House Global. Through a $600,000 grant, CVS Health colleagues across 10 regions will be able to participate in organized volunteer activities that focus on supporting Ronald McDonald House families, such as preparing meals and hosting activity nights. Colleagues nationwide will also have the opportunity to create their own volunteer events – empowering them to help make an impact in their own communities and advancing the two organizations’ shared commitment to supporting better health outcomes.

“Ronald McDonald House provides nearly 90 percent of all pediatric-only temporary housing for families in the United States, according to research from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. However, we estimate that we are only meeting 55 percent of current demand for our services in the U.S.,” said Katie Fitzgerald, President and Chief Executive Officer at Ronald McDonald House Global. “CVS Health will help Ronald McDonald House improve health outcomes by enabling more families to stay together and be involved in their child’s care.”

######

About CVS Health

CVS Health is a leading health solutions company building a world of health around every consumer, wherever they are. As of September 30, 2025, the Company had approximately 9,000 retail pharmacy locations, more than 1,000 walk-in and primary care medical clinics and a leading pharmacy benefits manager with approximately 87 million plan members. The Company also serves an estimated more than 37 million people through traditional, voluntary and consumer-directed health insurance products and related services, including highly rated Medicare Advantage offerings and a leading standalone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. The Company’s integrated model uses personalized, technology driven services to connect people to simply better health, increasing access to quality care, delivering better outcomes, and lowering overall costs.About CVS Health

About Ronald McDonald House:

Ronald McDonald House® is an independent, nonprofit 501(C)(3) organization that cares for families when they have children who are ill or injured. Through a global network of 250+ independently operated Chapters in 60+ countries and regions, we surround families with the resources, services and support they need, removing barriers so they can be at the heart of their child’s care and ensure the best possible health outcomes. For more information, visit ronaldmcdonaldhouse.org.

Originally published on CVS Health

CVS Health® recently worked with Ronald McDonald House® Global to support families during their children’s medical journeys during the holiday season. On December 3, the company collaborated with Philadelphia home decor creator Meghan Gallagher to decorate the first-ever Ronald McDonald House in Philadelphia with seasonal products from Joyward™, a new collection of decor, gifts and more just introduced by CVS Health.  

Common areas were decked out with Joyward’s cozy home accents and festive pieces, including soft throws and patterned pillows, colorful nutcrackers, ceramic trees and more, to help bring cheer to Ronald McDonald House families. CVS Health also provided curated care packages of Well Market™ snacks and personal care essentials. To close the evening, families came together to create ornaments and decorate the floor-to-ceiling dining room windows alongside CVS Health and Ronald McDonald House representatives.

“We believe that health extends beyond clinical care – it’s about supporting families during life’s most challenging moments,” said Jenny McColloch, VP, Community Impact and Chief Sustainability Officer, CVS Health. “Our work with Ronald McDonald House reflects that commitment. By combining our resources with Ronald McDonald House’s incredible work, we’re helping families stay close to their children’s medical care, while creating opportunities for our colleagues to make a meaningful impact in their communities. Together, we’re building healthier, stronger futures – one family at a time.”

The Philadelphia event is part of a longer-term collaboration between CVS Health and Ronald McDonald House Global. Through a $600,000 grant, CVS Health colleagues across 10 regions will be able to participate in organized volunteer activities that focus on supporting Ronald McDonald House families, such as preparing meals and hosting activity nights. Colleagues nationwide will also have the opportunity to create their own volunteer events – empowering them to help make an impact in their own communities and advancing the two organizations’ shared commitment to supporting better health outcomes.

“Ronald McDonald House provides nearly 90 percent of all pediatric-only temporary housing for families in the United States, according to research from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. However, we estimate that we are only meeting 55 percent of current demand for our services in the U.S.,” said Katie Fitzgerald, President and Chief Executive Officer at Ronald McDonald House Global. “CVS Health will help Ronald McDonald House improve health outcomes by enabling more families to stay together and be involved in their child’s care.”

######

About CVS Health

CVS Health is a leading health solutions company building a world of health around every consumer, wherever they are. As of September 30, 2025, the Company had approximately 9,000 retail pharmacy locations, more than 1,000 walk-in and primary care medical clinics and a leading pharmacy benefits manager with approximately 87 million plan members. The Company also serves an estimated more than 37 million people through traditional, voluntary and consumer-directed health insurance products and related services, including highly rated Medicare Advantage offerings and a leading standalone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. The Company’s integrated model uses personalized, technology driven services to connect people to simply better health, increasing access to quality care, delivering better outcomes, and lowering overall costs.About CVS Health

About Ronald McDonald House:

Ronald McDonald House® is an independent, nonprofit 501(C)(3) organization that cares for families when they have children who are ill or injured. Through a global network of 250+ independently operated Chapters in 60+ countries and regions, we surround families with the resources, services and support they need, removing barriers so they can be at the heart of their child’s care and ensure the best possible health outcomes. For more information, visit ronaldmcdonaldhouse.org.

Originally published on CVS Health

CVS Health® recently worked with Ronald McDonald House® Global to support families during their children’s medical journeys during the holiday season. On December 3, the company collaborated with Philadelphia home decor creator Meghan Gallagher to decorate the first-ever Ronald McDonald House in Philadelphia with seasonal products from Joyward™, a new collection of decor, gifts and more just introduced by CVS Health.  

Common areas were decked out with Joyward’s cozy home accents and festive pieces, including soft throws and patterned pillows, colorful nutcrackers, ceramic trees and more, to help bring cheer to Ronald McDonald House families. CVS Health also provided curated care packages of Well Market™ snacks and personal care essentials. To close the evening, families came together to create ornaments and decorate the floor-to-ceiling dining room windows alongside CVS Health and Ronald McDonald House representatives.

“We believe that health extends beyond clinical care – it’s about supporting families during life’s most challenging moments,” said Jenny McColloch, VP, Community Impact and Chief Sustainability Officer, CVS Health. “Our work with Ronald McDonald House reflects that commitment. By combining our resources with Ronald McDonald House’s incredible work, we’re helping families stay close to their children’s medical care, while creating opportunities for our colleagues to make a meaningful impact in their communities. Together, we’re building healthier, stronger futures – one family at a time.”

The Philadelphia event is part of a longer-term collaboration between CVS Health and Ronald McDonald House Global. Through a $600,000 grant, CVS Health colleagues across 10 regions will be able to participate in organized volunteer activities that focus on supporting Ronald McDonald House families, such as preparing meals and hosting activity nights. Colleagues nationwide will also have the opportunity to create their own volunteer events – empowering them to help make an impact in their own communities and advancing the two organizations’ shared commitment to supporting better health outcomes.

“Ronald McDonald House provides nearly 90 percent of all pediatric-only temporary housing for families in the United States, according to research from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. However, we estimate that we are only meeting 55 percent of current demand for our services in the U.S.,” said Katie Fitzgerald, President and Chief Executive Officer at Ronald McDonald House Global. “CVS Health will help Ronald McDonald House improve health outcomes by enabling more families to stay together and be involved in their child’s care.”

######

About CVS Health

CVS Health is a leading health solutions company building a world of health around every consumer, wherever they are. As of September 30, 2025, the Company had approximately 9,000 retail pharmacy locations, more than 1,000 walk-in and primary care medical clinics and a leading pharmacy benefits manager with approximately 87 million plan members. The Company also serves an estimated more than 37 million people through traditional, voluntary and consumer-directed health insurance products and related services, including highly rated Medicare Advantage offerings and a leading standalone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. The Company’s integrated model uses personalized, technology driven services to connect people to simply better health, increasing access to quality care, delivering better outcomes, and lowering overall costs.About CVS Health

About Ronald McDonald House:

Ronald McDonald House® is an independent, nonprofit 501(C)(3) organization that cares for families when they have children who are ill or injured. Through a global network of 250+ independently operated Chapters in 60+ countries and regions, we surround families with the resources, services and support they need, removing barriers so they can be at the heart of their child’s care and ensure the best possible health outcomes. For more information, visit ronaldmcdonaldhouse.org.

Originally published on 3M News Center

At the start of 2026, conversations in the tech world are shifting from what can be built to how fast new solutions can be implemented and scaled. 3M plays a critical role in this global ecosystem and is working to bridge the “innovation gap” — the space where digital potential meets physical reality.

To do this, 3M is focused on accelerating the introduction of new solutions for high-growth markets like consumer electronics, automotive, manufacturing automation, data centers, semiconductors, and energy. And by expanding access to its materials science and manufacturing expertise through new AI-driven platforms, 3M can help companies of varying scope and scale transition from “what’s next” to “what’s now.”

Delivering shorter automotive design cycles through virtual materials

The market is officially moving past the era where electronics are simply added to cars. In 2026, the industry will make significant strides toward full realization of electronics as the new engine. Drita Roggenbuck, president of the transportation and energy verticals for 3M, recently joined leaders from fellow industry leaders on stage at CES to outline this trajectory and discuss how the shift from supplier to co-innovator is accelerating. Whether working with OEMs on next-gen lightweighting for increased vehicle range or helping Tier 1 suppliers automate the application of bonding solutions, the goal is technical differentiation at the speed of the digital world.

Powering the rise of an agentic enterprise for advanced manufacturing

While consumer AI captures the headlines, innovative industrial applications are working to improve quality, equipment efficiency, and product development speed while supporting employees. 3M is enhancing its plant operations by using automation and robotic systems to complement skilled workers and help create more consistent processes, while helping reduce ergonomic risks of repetitive work. Embedded sensors provide real‑time data on equipment, quality and safety. Advanced analytics support dynamic scheduling, optimized material flow and scrap reduction, helping support consistent manufacturing outcomes.

Enabling new formats, device durability and ease of repair for consumer electronics

In 2026, the best device won’t just be the most powerful; it’ll be the solution with the best mix of durability and capability. 3M materials help shift the needle toward easier assembly, repair, and recycling, and support devices in holding up against moisture, heat, and mechanical stress. As the industry debuts larger screens and expands the number of foldable device offerings, 3M technologies are assisting manufacturers to meet expectations for picture clarity and contrast without sacrificing power efficiency and component durability.

Accelerating new data center builds and enhancing their connectivity

The backbone of the world’s digital transformation is the connected data center, so the industry is focused on speed of expansion and secure energy pathways. 3M cable prep solutions can help accelerate data center build times and, once operational, its sensors can provide real-time data on electrical grid performance, while expanded beam optics and high-speed copper solutions help ensure that data transfer keeps pace with the demands of AI.

Looking forward: the human-led, AI-powered future

Based on insights from the CES show floor, a recurring theme for 2026 will be that technology is only as good as the people who command it. The world is facing a widespread manufacturing skills gap, with an estimated 2.1 million unfilled jobs by 2030, according to the National Association of Manufacturers. To help bridge this gap, 3M is doubling down on its commitment to skilled trades and data literacy. By upskilling its workforce to lead adaptive operations, the company is working to implement AI-enabled assistants that enhance human expertise rather than replace it.

3M recently launched Ask3M, a new AI-powered digital assistant that helps customers find solutions to design challenges using 3M’s portfolio of adhesives and tapes, and expanded the 3M Digital Materials Hub, to enable direct collaboration with 3M scientists through the Workbench feature and power virtual materials sampling.

These powerful generative AI and virtual sampling tools help designers digitally validate materials before physical prototyping. However, these platforms are only as effective as the people who command them. To truly bridge the gap between raw data and functional solutions, upskilling is essential to ensure human insight remains the driving force behind the technology.

The roadmap is clear: the future belongs to those who can master the intersection of the digital and the physical. By prioritizing faster innovation cycles, flexible design, and a highly skilled workforce, 3M is not just predicting the future, it is helping build the resilient, high-speed infrastructure to power it.

Originally published on 3M News Center

At the start of 2026, conversations in the tech world are shifting from what can be built to how fast new solutions can be implemented and scaled. 3M plays a critical role in this global ecosystem and is working to bridge the “innovation gap” — the space where digital potential meets physical reality.

To do this, 3M is focused on accelerating the introduction of new solutions for high-growth markets like consumer electronics, automotive, manufacturing automation, data centers, semiconductors, and energy. And by expanding access to its materials science and manufacturing expertise through new AI-driven platforms, 3M can help companies of varying scope and scale transition from “what’s next” to “what’s now.”

Delivering shorter automotive design cycles through virtual materials

The market is officially moving past the era where electronics are simply added to cars. In 2026, the industry will make significant strides toward full realization of electronics as the new engine. Drita Roggenbuck, president of the transportation and energy verticals for 3M, recently joined leaders from fellow industry leaders on stage at CES to outline this trajectory and discuss how the shift from supplier to co-innovator is accelerating. Whether working with OEMs on next-gen lightweighting for increased vehicle range or helping Tier 1 suppliers automate the application of bonding solutions, the goal is technical differentiation at the speed of the digital world.

Powering the rise of an agentic enterprise for advanced manufacturing

While consumer AI captures the headlines, innovative industrial applications are working to improve quality, equipment efficiency, and product development speed while supporting employees. 3M is enhancing its plant operations by using automation and robotic systems to complement skilled workers and help create more consistent processes, while helping reduce ergonomic risks of repetitive work. Embedded sensors provide real‑time data on equipment, quality and safety. Advanced analytics support dynamic scheduling, optimized material flow and scrap reduction, helping support consistent manufacturing outcomes.

Enabling new formats, device durability and ease of repair for consumer electronics

In 2026, the best device won’t just be the most powerful; it’ll be the solution with the best mix of durability and capability. 3M materials help shift the needle toward easier assembly, repair, and recycling, and support devices in holding up against moisture, heat, and mechanical stress. As the industry debuts larger screens and expands the number of foldable device offerings, 3M technologies are assisting manufacturers to meet expectations for picture clarity and contrast without sacrificing power efficiency and component durability.

Accelerating new data center builds and enhancing their connectivity

The backbone of the world’s digital transformation is the connected data center, so the industry is focused on speed of expansion and secure energy pathways. 3M cable prep solutions can help accelerate data center build times and, once operational, its sensors can provide real-time data on electrical grid performance, while expanded beam optics and high-speed copper solutions help ensure that data transfer keeps pace with the demands of AI.

Looking forward: the human-led, AI-powered future

Based on insights from the CES show floor, a recurring theme for 2026 will be that technology is only as good as the people who command it. The world is facing a widespread manufacturing skills gap, with an estimated 2.1 million unfilled jobs by 2030, according to the National Association of Manufacturers. To help bridge this gap, 3M is doubling down on its commitment to skilled trades and data literacy. By upskilling its workforce to lead adaptive operations, the company is working to implement AI-enabled assistants that enhance human expertise rather than replace it.

3M recently launched Ask3M, a new AI-powered digital assistant that helps customers find solutions to design challenges using 3M’s portfolio of adhesives and tapes, and expanded the 3M Digital Materials Hub, to enable direct collaboration with 3M scientists through the Workbench feature and power virtual materials sampling.

These powerful generative AI and virtual sampling tools help designers digitally validate materials before physical prototyping. However, these platforms are only as effective as the people who command them. To truly bridge the gap between raw data and functional solutions, upskilling is essential to ensure human insight remains the driving force behind the technology.

The roadmap is clear: the future belongs to those who can master the intersection of the digital and the physical. By prioritizing faster innovation cycles, flexible design, and a highly skilled workforce, 3M is not just predicting the future, it is helping build the resilient, high-speed infrastructure to power it.

Originally published on 3M News Center

At the start of 2026, conversations in the tech world are shifting from what can be built to how fast new solutions can be implemented and scaled. 3M plays a critical role in this global ecosystem and is working to bridge the “innovation gap” — the space where digital potential meets physical reality.

To do this, 3M is focused on accelerating the introduction of new solutions for high-growth markets like consumer electronics, automotive, manufacturing automation, data centers, semiconductors, and energy. And by expanding access to its materials science and manufacturing expertise through new AI-driven platforms, 3M can help companies of varying scope and scale transition from “what’s next” to “what’s now.”

Delivering shorter automotive design cycles through virtual materials

The market is officially moving past the era where electronics are simply added to cars. In 2026, the industry will make significant strides toward full realization of electronics as the new engine. Drita Roggenbuck, president of the transportation and energy verticals for 3M, recently joined leaders from fellow industry leaders on stage at CES to outline this trajectory and discuss how the shift from supplier to co-innovator is accelerating. Whether working with OEMs on next-gen lightweighting for increased vehicle range or helping Tier 1 suppliers automate the application of bonding solutions, the goal is technical differentiation at the speed of the digital world.

Powering the rise of an agentic enterprise for advanced manufacturing

While consumer AI captures the headlines, innovative industrial applications are working to improve quality, equipment efficiency, and product development speed while supporting employees. 3M is enhancing its plant operations by using automation and robotic systems to complement skilled workers and help create more consistent processes, while helping reduce ergonomic risks of repetitive work. Embedded sensors provide real‑time data on equipment, quality and safety. Advanced analytics support dynamic scheduling, optimized material flow and scrap reduction, helping support consistent manufacturing outcomes.

Enabling new formats, device durability and ease of repair for consumer electronics

In 2026, the best device won’t just be the most powerful; it’ll be the solution with the best mix of durability and capability. 3M materials help shift the needle toward easier assembly, repair, and recycling, and support devices in holding up against moisture, heat, and mechanical stress. As the industry debuts larger screens and expands the number of foldable device offerings, 3M technologies are assisting manufacturers to meet expectations for picture clarity and contrast without sacrificing power efficiency and component durability.

Accelerating new data center builds and enhancing their connectivity

The backbone of the world’s digital transformation is the connected data center, so the industry is focused on speed of expansion and secure energy pathways. 3M cable prep solutions can help accelerate data center build times and, once operational, its sensors can provide real-time data on electrical grid performance, while expanded beam optics and high-speed copper solutions help ensure that data transfer keeps pace with the demands of AI.

Looking forward: the human-led, AI-powered future

Based on insights from the CES show floor, a recurring theme for 2026 will be that technology is only as good as the people who command it. The world is facing a widespread manufacturing skills gap, with an estimated 2.1 million unfilled jobs by 2030, according to the National Association of Manufacturers. To help bridge this gap, 3M is doubling down on its commitment to skilled trades and data literacy. By upskilling its workforce to lead adaptive operations, the company is working to implement AI-enabled assistants that enhance human expertise rather than replace it.

3M recently launched Ask3M, a new AI-powered digital assistant that helps customers find solutions to design challenges using 3M’s portfolio of adhesives and tapes, and expanded the 3M Digital Materials Hub, to enable direct collaboration with 3M scientists through the Workbench feature and power virtual materials sampling.

These powerful generative AI and virtual sampling tools help designers digitally validate materials before physical prototyping. However, these platforms are only as effective as the people who command them. To truly bridge the gap between raw data and functional solutions, upskilling is essential to ensure human insight remains the driving force behind the technology.

The roadmap is clear: the future belongs to those who can master the intersection of the digital and the physical. By prioritizing faster innovation cycles, flexible design, and a highly skilled workforce, 3M is not just predicting the future, it is helping build the resilient, high-speed infrastructure to power it.

Originally published on 3M News Center

At the start of 2026, conversations in the tech world are shifting from what can be built to how fast new solutions can be implemented and scaled. 3M plays a critical role in this global ecosystem and is working to bridge the “innovation gap” — the space where digital potential meets physical reality.

To do this, 3M is focused on accelerating the introduction of new solutions for high-growth markets like consumer electronics, automotive, manufacturing automation, data centers, semiconductors, and energy. And by expanding access to its materials science and manufacturing expertise through new AI-driven platforms, 3M can help companies of varying scope and scale transition from “what’s next” to “what’s now.”

Delivering shorter automotive design cycles through virtual materials

The market is officially moving past the era where electronics are simply added to cars. In 2026, the industry will make significant strides toward full realization of electronics as the new engine. Drita Roggenbuck, president of the transportation and energy verticals for 3M, recently joined leaders from fellow industry leaders on stage at CES to outline this trajectory and discuss how the shift from supplier to co-innovator is accelerating. Whether working with OEMs on next-gen lightweighting for increased vehicle range or helping Tier 1 suppliers automate the application of bonding solutions, the goal is technical differentiation at the speed of the digital world.

Powering the rise of an agentic enterprise for advanced manufacturing

While consumer AI captures the headlines, innovative industrial applications are working to improve quality, equipment efficiency, and product development speed while supporting employees. 3M is enhancing its plant operations by using automation and robotic systems to complement skilled workers and help create more consistent processes, while helping reduce ergonomic risks of repetitive work. Embedded sensors provide real‑time data on equipment, quality and safety. Advanced analytics support dynamic scheduling, optimized material flow and scrap reduction, helping support consistent manufacturing outcomes.

Enabling new formats, device durability and ease of repair for consumer electronics

In 2026, the best device won’t just be the most powerful; it’ll be the solution with the best mix of durability and capability. 3M materials help shift the needle toward easier assembly, repair, and recycling, and support devices in holding up against moisture, heat, and mechanical stress. As the industry debuts larger screens and expands the number of foldable device offerings, 3M technologies are assisting manufacturers to meet expectations for picture clarity and contrast without sacrificing power efficiency and component durability.

Accelerating new data center builds and enhancing their connectivity

The backbone of the world’s digital transformation is the connected data center, so the industry is focused on speed of expansion and secure energy pathways. 3M cable prep solutions can help accelerate data center build times and, once operational, its sensors can provide real-time data on electrical grid performance, while expanded beam optics and high-speed copper solutions help ensure that data transfer keeps pace with the demands of AI.

Looking forward: the human-led, AI-powered future

Based on insights from the CES show floor, a recurring theme for 2026 will be that technology is only as good as the people who command it. The world is facing a widespread manufacturing skills gap, with an estimated 2.1 million unfilled jobs by 2030, according to the National Association of Manufacturers. To help bridge this gap, 3M is doubling down on its commitment to skilled trades and data literacy. By upskilling its workforce to lead adaptive operations, the company is working to implement AI-enabled assistants that enhance human expertise rather than replace it.

3M recently launched Ask3M, a new AI-powered digital assistant that helps customers find solutions to design challenges using 3M’s portfolio of adhesives and tapes, and expanded the 3M Digital Materials Hub, to enable direct collaboration with 3M scientists through the Workbench feature and power virtual materials sampling.

These powerful generative AI and virtual sampling tools help designers digitally validate materials before physical prototyping. However, these platforms are only as effective as the people who command them. To truly bridge the gap between raw data and functional solutions, upskilling is essential to ensure human insight remains the driving force behind the technology.

The roadmap is clear: the future belongs to those who can master the intersection of the digital and the physical. By prioritizing faster innovation cycles, flexible design, and a highly skilled workforce, 3M is not just predicting the future, it is helping build the resilient, high-speed infrastructure to power it.