Automation & Layout Strategy: A new piece argues small factories can still automate by rethinking floor plans, using versatile equipment, and testing layouts with simulation. Solar Manufacturing Layoffs: Heliene cut 93 jobs at its Mountain Iron solar panel plant, citing “unforeseen circumstances,” with pay continuing through October. Tariffs Reshape Supply Chains: Trump announced a 15% tariff on polysilicon-derived products (plus minimum import prices), aiming to curb China-led pricing and boost U.S. solar and semiconductor inputs. Defense Manufacturing Ecosystems: Canada’s Greater Barrie Chamber launched a dual-use manufacturing ecosystem to help local firms team up for defense work. AI in Production: Nio highlighted AI-driven vehicle self-inspection at its Hefei plant, cutting inspection time dramatically. New Plant Investments: Siemens will build a $19M electrical products facility in Grand Prairie, Texas, adding about 160 jobs. Regulatory/Quality Pressure in Pharma: Scholar Rock said it will remove Novo Nordisk’s Indiana fill-finish site from an FDA drug application after compliance issues. Robotic Additive Manufacturing Hub: Milan’s first permanent LFAM robotic design hub launched, aiming to bring large-format additive production into the city’s design community.