The SEISMEC Horizon Europe project, led by Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR), is redefining the future of industry by placing people at the center of AI and technological development. Now in its second year, SEISMEC (Supporting European Industry Success Maximisation through Empowerment-Centered Development) brings together a multinational consortium of researchers, industry leaders, and civil society organizations to drive a more inclusive, ethical, and sustainable industrial transformation.
17 pilots in 14 countries and industrial ecosystems
With 17 pilot projects spanning 14 countries and 14 industrial ecosystems, SEISMEC is exploring how digital technologies and AI can enhance, rather than replace, human capabilities. The goal is to empower workers, promote inclusivity, and build a more human-centered industrial future. The project aligns with the principles of Industry 5.0, a movement that prioritizes human well-being, sustainability, and resilience in industrial innovation.
SEISMEC pilots are representative of all sectors and company sizes (from start-up to large enterprises), and most European countries and worker roles. Such pilots include: the Zagreb Airport in Croatia, a food enterprise from Lithuania, a wind power manufacturer from Turkey, a healthcare provider from Belgium and a high-quality textile manufacturer from Italy.
EUR’s Role in SEISMEC
Researchers from EUR are playing a pivotal role in shaping SEISMEC’s direction. Project Coordinator Jason Pridmore (ESHCC) leads a multidisciplinary team including Jovana Karanovic (RSM), Andy Sanchez (ESHCC), Vladimer Kobayashi (RSM), Veronika Bak (ESHCC) and Chantal Ho (ESHCC). Their combined expertise helps to develop strategies that empower workers in an evolving technological landscape, ensuring that digital transformation remains people-centered.
Insights from the First Year
The first year of SEISMEC has been a collaborative effort involving more than 30 partners, including universities, research centers, SMEs, and large corporations. This diverse partnership has been instrumental in shaping the project’s approach. Reflecting on the project’s progress, Jason Pridmore states: “Change takes time. Transitioning to human-centric industrial practices requires not only technological innovation but also strong collaboration. In our first year, we have established clear directions for our pilot projects—ensuring they implement solutions tailored to their unique contexts while fostering mutual learning. However, translating our broad objectives into flexible yet structured pilot journeys has been a challenge. That said, I see key processes coming together, thanks to the commitment of our consortium partners. We are continuously learning from one another and from other Industry 5.0 initiatives facing similar challenges.”
As SEISMEC continues its work into 2025, it is poised to reshape the industrial landscape, putting people at the center of technological advancement and charting a course toward a more inclusive, ethical, and sustainable future for industry worldwide.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As SEISMEC moves into its next phase, the project remains dedicated to reshaping industry by ensuring technology serves human needs rather than dictating them. By fostering knowledge exchange across its pilot projects and refining its approach to Industry 5.0, SEISMEC aims to create tangible, scalable solutions that prioritize worker empowerment and long-term sustainability.
Want to know more?
Read more about the project and its pilots on the SEISMEC website and key achievements on the first year of the project. For more details on SEISMEC contact Marcel Langone, Project Manager at Engagement & Research Services (ERS).
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Funded via the Horizon Europe program
