Arden Dies explores AI and automation through digital internships

Posted on: Thursday, February 26th, 2026

Made Smarter Digital Internship programme helps Arden Dies test and adopt new technologies

Arden Dies has explored practical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation across our operations after teaming up with two digital interns through Made Smarter’s Digital Internship Programme.

We worked with data science student Deniz Beyazgul from Manchester Metropolitan University and robotics and automation student Husan Vokhidov from University of Salford to investigate how AI and machine learning could add measurable value to our manufacturing processes.

The three-month paid placements enabled Arden to examine AI in a focused and commercially driven way, analysing workflows, exploring automation opportunities and identifying improvements across CAD/CAM and production systems.

Sarah Poynter, Operations Director at Arden Dies, said: “Bringing in a digital intern has allowed us to explore AI in a focused, practical way. It’s about finding tools that genuinely add value to our manufacturing operations, not technology for technology’s sake. Having someone with an AI background has really opened our eyes to what’s possible.”

During the placement, the interns worked directly with production teams, applying AI techniques to real manufacturing data and operational challenges.

Deniz Beyazgul said: “The placement helped teams better understand AI and how it could be integrated into everyday workflows. We were able to analyse and automate processes and identify real opportunities to improve performance and quality.”

Husan Vokhidov added: “The internship gave me the chance to apply AI and machine learning to real CAD/CAM data, building my technical skills while seeing how digital technologies support advanced manufacturing in practice.”

The internships were delivered through Made Smarter North West, the government-backed programme supporting SME manufacturers with digital transformation. The initiative allows businesses to test new technologies in a practical, low-risk way while giving students and graduates paid experience inside live industrial environments.

Over the past year, Made Smarter North West’s latest cohort of 18 interns have worked directly on factory floors and in engineering teams, applying a wide range of digital technologies to real production challenges. These include robotics and automation, artificial intelligence, data and analytics, CNC and CAD-to-CNC workflows, virtual reality and digital twins, system integration and wider workflow digitisation.

Donna Edwards, Programme Director for Made Smarter North West, added: “These digital internships are delivering exactly what manufacturers need, practical digital skills and fresh thinking, while giving students and graduates paid, hands-on experience on real industrial projects, and a direct stepping stone into employment.”

Since its inception in 2019, Made Smarter has supported over 2,500 manufacturers across the North West, providing access to expert digital advice, technology adoption roadmaps, skills development opportunities, and funded technology projects.

Find out more about the Digital Internship programme and read the recent white paper, visit:
madesmarter.uk/adoption/internship-programme