“To compete in today’s global economy, every nation needs modernized digital infrastructure and a digitally empowered workforce.” This statement from Cisco’s Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) program highlights the critical importance of technology in shaping future industries—and reflects the mission of the CDA itself. Nowhere is this need for digital transformation more evident than in the manufacturing sector, where technologies like AI and IoT are revolutionizing operations.
To drive this digital transformation in manufacturing, the CDA has facilitated a powerful collaboration between TD SYNNEX, Cisco and Intel, in joining forces with MxD (Manufacturing x Digital) to accelerate the adoption of digital solutions. Through this partnership, real-world, market-ready innovations are being showcased to empower manufacturers to build smarter, more connected factories—ensuring they stay competitive in today’s fast-evolving global market.
What Is MxD and Why Does It Matter?
Located in Chicago, MxD is a 22,000-square-foot research factory floor created in partnership with the Department of Defense (DoD) to test and demonstrate new manufacturing technologies. Its mission is to strengthen U.S. manufacturing competitiveness through technology innovation, workforce development, and cybersecurity preparedness. The facility serves as a hands-on platform where manufacturers can explore the next generation of AI and IoT tools while addressing cybersecurity needs. As the designated National Center for Cybersecurity in Manufacturing, MxD plays a pivotal role in securing the digital future of the industry.
The collaboration between TD SYNNEX, Cisco and Intel at MxD is advancing the goals and mission of MxD by bringing innovative, market-ready solutions to the forefront of the industry. The CEO of MxD, Berardino Baratta, explained, “Welcoming Cisco, Intel and TD SYNNEX to MxD is an exciting step toward the future of manufacturing. These organizations are driving innovation at the intersection of technology and data, creating new opportunities to accelerate technology adoption in manufacturing.”
TD SYNNEX, Cisco and Intel’s Role in the MxD Partnership
TD SYNNEX, Cisco and Intel have teamed up to share 1,000 square feet of space on MxD’s factory floor, where they will present live, interactive demonstrations of AI-powered and IoT-driven solutions designed for industrial environments. Cisco’s Industrial IoT portfolio provides manufacturers with a secure, resilient, and AI-ready foundation that supports IT and OT (operational technology) convergence, modernizing infrastructure and helping manufacturers realize the full potential of Industry 4.0.
“Through our joint investment with TD SYNNEX, we are reaffirming Cisco’s commitment to advancing digitization in manufacturing,” said Stefan Leitl, VP of Global Industrial IoT Sales at Cisco.“ This collaboration not only helps create the factories of the future but also provides manufacturers with the expertise and tools they need to securely connect their operations and accelerate their digital journey.”
For TD SYNNEX, this collaboration enables partners to experience cutting-edge technologies firsthand, empowering them to deliver real-world solutions to their customers. “By working closely with Cisco and Intel, we can offer our partners access to an incredible range of AI and IoT solutions, allowing them to explore how these technologies can drive real-world results for their customers,” said Lisa McGarvey, VP of Data and IoT at TD SYNNEX.
What This Means for TD SYNNEX Partners
The partnership at MxD is a valuable opportunity for TD SYNNEX distribution partners. By providing access to live demonstrations of cutting-edge industrial solutions, TD SYNNEX helps partners enhance their expertise in AI, IoT, and cybersecurity. This collaboration equips partners with the knowledge and tools needed to deliver end-to-end solutions to their customers, addressing both IT and OT challenges. These solutions include secure remote access, resilient wireless infrastructure, and AI-powered threat intelligence, all critical for manufacturers embracing digital transformation.
For TD SYNNEX partners, this means they are better equipped to deliver tangible outcomes to their customers, enhancing operational efficiency, strengthening cybersecurity, and increasing revenue opportunities. Additionally, the collaboration supports partners as they guide their customers through the complexities of Industry 4.0, offering actionable insights into how to implement smart factory solutions effectively.
Shaping the Future of Manufacturing
As manufacturers face an evolving landscape, secure, intelligent and connected solutions are essential. The collaboration between TD SYNNEX, Cisco and Intel at MxD ensures that the future of manufacturing is not only promising but also accessible to partners and their customers. By participating in this innovation hub, TD SYNNEX is helping manufacturers embrace technologies that will transform their operations and unlock unprecedented value.
For TD SYNNEX partners, this is a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of digital manufacturing, delivering advanced solutions to address the challenges of today’s industrial environments. To learn more about how TD SYNNEX and Cisco are enabling the future of manufacturing, visit MxD.
