A year ago, Johnson Precision Manufacturing had never touched AI.
Paper-based. Legacy systems. No internal tech team.
Their CFO said what many in that position might think:
“AI sounds expensive, complicated, and honestly… not for us.”
Fast forward 12 months, they’d achieved a 300% ROI.
What changed?
They didn’t overhaul the business.
They picked one small problem: quality control.
Chose a pilot with low risk, high impact, using data they already had.
And they implemented AI to support, not replace, their team.
The results?
- 28% less scrap
- 50% faster inspections
- A quiet but real culture shift
This story reflects something I’ve come to appreciate more over time:
AI doesn’t have to be loud or disruptive to create value.
In fact, the most sustainable wins often come from:
- Solving specific business problems, not chasing trends
- Starting with what’s doable, not what’s flashy
- Designing with your team, not around them
And maybe most of all, recognizing that you don’t need to become a tech company to benefit from tech.
Takeaway:
If you’re in a traditional business and unsure where to begin with AI, start small.
You don’t need to bet the company to prove the value.
If you’re working through that journey or thinking about it, I’m always open to learning from others or sharing ideas. Let’s connect.
