2025 Europe agenda

07:30 – 08:30 | Registration & Morning Coffee in the Collaboration Café

Welcome
Peter Bilello, President & CEO, CIMdata & Håkan Kårdén, Strategic Advisor, HKAB

Opening Presentation: PLM’s Integral Role in Digital Transformation
Peter Bilello, President & CEO, CIMdata
As PLM professionals, we must understand and promote that PLM is a strategic business approach powered by a consistent set of solutions that support the collaborative creation, use, management, and dissemination of product-related intellectual assets. When enabled and executed correctly, a PLM strategy maximises return on investment by ensuring the right products reach the right markets every time. This presentation will explore how digitalising the entire product lifecycle is at the core of an organisation’s digital transformation and why it requires rethinking many organisational structures and business processes. It will emphasise why PLM needs to be well understood and incorporated into a company’s digital transformation initiative, as well as the critical role it plays. Additionally, a brief review of CIMdata’s Critical Dozen—key trends and enablers for a successful digital transformation, along with the required PLM enablement, will be presented.

KEYNOTE: The Digital Thread as the Foundation of the Omniverse: PLM Vision Becomes Reality
Professor Martin Eigner, Founder, EIGNER Engineering Consult
Forty years of PDM/PLM—what have we achieved? Despite considerable progress, integration across the entire product lifecycle remains limited. We are still far from achieving the original vision of end-to-end PLM. This is mainly due to fragmented IT structures, as well as silo-oriented thinking and behaviour. Fortunately, modern technologies such as Extended Digital Thread, digital twins, artificial intelligence (AI), and the NVIDIA Omniverse platform now enable consistent networking, simulation, virtualisation, and analysis of technical systems. The digital thread serves as a semantic backbone, providing consistent data across system boundaries and supplying AI-driven applications with contextualised information.

Sponsor Thought-Leadership Vignettes

Networking Break & Collaboration Café

How A Business Capability Model and Application Portfolio Management Bridge The Gap Between IT and Business
Peter Vind, Enterprise Architect, Siemens Energy
Siemens Energy has undergone two major business changes—the split from Siemens AG and the acquisition of Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy. This presentation will share how the Business Capability Model (BCM) is used to move from reactive to proactive discussions between IT and Business, and how the Enterprise Architecture team uses it. The BCM helps structure the IT application landscape and, along with active Application Portfolio Management, ensures Siemens Energy has the right solutions in place to support the business’s needs while keeping costs and complexity down. This presentation will build on the one made at PLM Road Map and PDT Europe 2024, with greater emphasis on product data and the PLM domain.

The Value Potential of Digital Twins and Digital Threads – Results of Recent Industry Research
Dr. Robert Rencher, Senior Systems Engineer, Associate Technical Fellow, The Boeing Company (for the AD PAG)
Digital thread and digital twin are inspiring in their simplicity and implied power to render accessible all desired information about a product at any stage of its lifecycle. While there are examples of digital threads and digital twins, the knowledge of what is possible today and how to build digital threads and twins is not well understood. The Aerospace & Defense PLM Action Group (AD PAG) partnered with AIAA, OMG, Prostep iViP, and SAE International and engaged with seven digital twin-digital thread solution providers to address three research objectives: the broad assessment of commercially available solutions, the mutual education and alignment of thought leaders, and the advancement of industry’s understanding of the what, why, and how of digital twin-digital thread investment. This presentation summarises this groundbreaking effort, concluding with recommendations for the path forward.

Sponsor Thought-Leadership Vignettes

Networking Lunch & Collaboration Café

Transforming Product Development with AI
Dr. Henrik Weimer, Director of Digital Engineering, Airbus
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionise aerospace system engineering, boosting efficiency, cutting costs, and improving product quality across the entire product lifecycle. This presentation will explore how AI technologies can transform traditional engineering practices, from requirements capture to in-service support. Large Language Models (LLMs) and other AI capabilities can augment engineering workflows in previously unimaginable ways. Specific use cases, such as automated requirements analysis, design space exploration, AI-assisted architecture trade studies, and design optimisation will be highlighted. AI technologies can help identify requirements inconsistencies, suggest architectural alternatives, and accelerate decision-making. AI can support development and testing, including automated test case generation and intelligent defect detection. And AI is already transforming in-service support through AI-powered diagnostic systems and predictive maintenance algorithms. Implementation challenges, including regulatory hurdles and data governance, will also be addressed.

PLM Interoperability and the Untapped Value of 40 years in Standardisation
Kenny Swope, Senior Manager – Enterprise Interoperability Standards & Supply Chain Collaboration, The Boeing Company
The ISO Committee that introduced the ISO 10303 STEP standard celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2024. The National Institute of Standards and Technology called it “The Grand Experience” in 1999 with the introduction of formal modeling, using a modeling language for product data, information represented through the model, and a structure suitable for conformance testing. The original use case was open-source data exchange between proprietary CAD systems; the standard now encompasses the entire product lifecycle and use cases, including supplier collaboration, semantic manufacturing, and long-term archiving. It remains widely used for transmitting product data. Yet, industrial stakeholders are quietly remarking that its time has passed. The standard is too old, rigid, and complex to adapt to today’s emerging technologies, such as graph, service orientation, AI, and ontological reasoning systems. But is this reality? This presentation will examine what made the standard applicable for so long, reflecting on whether those conditions still exist today in the context of digital transformation, as well as where the standard has the potential to go over the next 40 years.

Bringing Meaning Back To Data: How Ontologies and SousLeSens Empower Industry in the Age of AI
Jean-Charles Leclerc, Head of Innovation & Standards, TotalEnergies
In today’s VUCA world, shaped by AI, organisations face a growing challenge: maintaining data that is meaningful, trustworthy, and usable across complex systems. While AI excels at pattern recognition, it often lacks context and domain understanding. That’s where semantic technologies, especially ontologies, come in. Why is this critical in 2025? Because misunderstanding data leads to missed opportunities, compliance risks, and poor decisions. Ontologies align data with business meaning, enabling interoperability across departments and industries. For CTOs & CXOs, this means better governance, reduced risk, and smarter AI, turning raw data into actionable insights. This presentation will share real-world energy sector use cases and consider the broader standardisation landscape, including ISO, IEC, OMG, and W3C, as well as how the tools developed support these efforts with an open, extensible platform that integrates dynamic modeling capabilities. It will clearly show how ontologies and Semantic Knowledge Graphs are working, why they matter now, and how tools like SousLeSens help organisations unlock the full value of their data, safely and at scale.

Sponsor Thought-Leadership Vignettes

Networking Break & Collaboration Café

Semantic Digital Thread for Enhanced Systems Engineering in a Federated PLM Landscape
Dr. Yousef Hooshmand, PLM & R&D Toolchain Lead Architect, NIO
Achieving the full potential of Systems Engineering requires improved traceability and seamless collaboration across disciplines and lifecycle phases. A Semantic Digital Thread plays a critical role in this, particularly within federated PLM landscapes where data is distributed across diverse tools, sources, and domains. By applying knowledge graphs and AI techniques, meaningful connections can be established among business objects spread across structured data, documents, and models. This creates a rich digital thread that captures both explicit and implicit relationships. Combined with semi-deterministic AI techniques, such a digital thread provides a unified semantic foundation that supports a range of Systems Engineering approaches, from requirements validation to design evaluation and model creation. This presentation demonstrates the practical benefits of the above approaches through two representative use cases: change impact analysis and cost estimation. These examples highlight how engineering insight can be deepened and cross-disciplinary alignment improved in complex product development environments.

Panel Discussion: How AI and PLM Enable Each Other
Moderated by Peter Bilello, President & CEO, CIMdata
PLM has been increasingly viewed through the lens of enterprise digital transformation, garnering more attention within the executive ranks. Now, the perception of PLM’s importance in the Board Room is being supercharged by corporate leadership’s interest in AI. Importantly, AI and PLM exert a reciprocal influence on one another. As industrial investment in AI accelerates, there is a growing recognition that its effectiveness is reliant on clean and trustworthy data. As the world of AI evolves into “modules,” PLM emerges as the primary source for this essential, high-quality product data. At the same time, the broader application of AI within PLM solutions is recognised as a high-potential value multiplier. In this panel discussion, we will interview thought leaders who advise executives on AI and enterprise PLM strategy, and who then must deliver on those strategies. From these perspectives, we will examine the symbiotic relationship between AI and PLM. The discussion will provide invaluable guidance to PLM professionals seeking to secure executive recognition of their PLM program as a critical component of an enterprise AI strategy.

17:30 | Conference Adjourns for the Day

17:30 – 18:30 | Cocktails and Pre-dinner drinks in the Collaboration Café

19:00 – 21:00 | Conference Dinner (separate ticket required)

07:30 – 08:00 | Morning Coffee in the Collaboration Café

Welcome
Peter Bilello, President & CEO, CIMdata & Håkan Kårdén, Strategic Advisor, HKAB

KEYNOTE: Unlocking Efficiency with Model-Based Definition at Vestas, a Wind Turbine OEM
Dennys Gomes, Senior Director, Head of Component Design Excellence, Vestas Power Solutions
Vestas initiated its Model-Based Definition (MBD) journey in 2017 to replace traditional 2D drawings with annotated 3D models, aiming to enhance clarity, efficiency, and collaboration across its engineering and supply chain. Following extensive research and collaboration, MBD deployment commenced in 2021. MBD, as defined by ASME Y14.47, integrates geometry, annotations, specifications, and manufacturing data into a single digital model. Key challenges included supplier adaptation, navigating shop floor conditions, and legacy 2D-based processes. The phased roadmap transitions from drawing-centric to model-centric practices, targeting a fully model-based enterprise. Focus areas include reusable MBD frameworks, GD&T integration, digital thread enablement, and robust governance. The Technical Data Package consolidates all product data into machine-readable and human-readable formats, streamlining downstream processes. By aligning with MIL-STD-31000, ISO 16792, and ASME standards, Vestas is driving innovation, efficiency, and profitability through MBD.

Evaluation of SysML v2 for Collaborative MBSE
Chris Watkins, Principal Engineer, Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation (for the AD PAG)
The new SysML v2 Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) standard has been assessed by the AD PAG MBSE Collaboration working group as a potential solution to improve collaboration in engineering models and avoid tool-vendor lock. SysML v2 is a new standard approved in 2025 by the Object Management Group. The AD PAG working group comprises major aerospace & defense Original Equipment Manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers who are interested in SysML v2 as a potential enabler to work together more effectively within the engineering modeling environment. This presentation will provide a summary of the project report, highlighting the benefits of SysML v2, identified gaps that challenge collaboration, as well as external considerations that need to be addressed in the adoption and roll-out of SysML v2. SysML v2 tools were not yet available at the time of this investigation; therefore, the conclusions are based on analysis of the SysML v2 standard and engagements with some of the major SysML v2 solution providers.

Sponsor Thought-Leadership Vignettes

Networking Break & Collaboration Café

A Common Language for Aerospace, … and Beyond!
Thomas Barre, Semantic Mapping Leader, Airbus
Thomas Barre from Airbus has been involved for years in an effort to develop a common language for querying data. The goal of this language is to provide practical solutions for clarifying, federating, and querying data, at minimal cost and time, and even at the massive scale of an aircraft program. The language is based on proven international standards, such as ISO/IEC 81346. This standard was initially developed for construction work, such as building projects. With the support of the authors of this standard, Airbus has developed extensions for other domains, i.e., manufacturing, processes, vehicles, and properties. These extensions are being proposed individually over time for formal introduction as new parts of ISO/IEC 81346. As we know, a language only becomes common when it is recognised by the key players and used by many people. This presentation will provide an overview of this language, solicit feedback, and invite collaboration in this project to benefit the aerospace industry and beyond.

Requirements Traceability to Enable Mission Readiness
Simon Pettersson, Director Defence Industry, Eurostep AB
Achieving a coherent and unified view of a product’s definition throughout its entire lifecycle can be challenging, particularly for complex products with long lifespans and numerous stakeholders involved over time. To leverage the full potential of the product data, it must be integrated not only across disciplines throughout the lifecycle but also in an extended enterprise setting. This presentation will explore how to continuously use product data to drive cost models, ultimately influencing availability and mission readiness. Strategies for maintaining, gathering, and securing accurate data, ensuring robust requirements traceability and enabling deeper insights to support well-informed decisions will be discussed. This presentation will illustrate how coherent data practices supported by international standards provide enhanced availability, reduce risk, and align business outcomes with mission-critical goals across industries.

How do we Drive Through-Life Product Performance: It’s not AI, Digital Twins or Toolsets
Craig Spacey, Group Support & Services Director, BAE Systems
How often have we heard that AI is the answer? Or that we should create a digital twin? Or that a new toolset can solve everything if only we would buy it?! BAE Systems’ Craig Spacey believes none of these alone is the solution. Instead, he advocates for effective collaboration on foundational data architectures—rooted in a product’s definition—to enable more effective adoption of technologies through-life. Why? The complexity of stakeholder environments, increasing commercialisation of technology, and limited skills have led to incoherent product strategies. How? By shifting focus from transient applications to lifecycle-centric architectures, organisations can better align data requirements, maintain consistent configuration management, and streamline collaboration with customers and suppliers. This presentation will share practical insights on architecting a future-proof data strategy that remains viable as technologies evolve, ensuring a cohesive, long-term approach to design, development, and in-service support.

Networking Lunch & Collaboration Café

Holistic PLM in Action: Master the transformation, overcome challenges, and achieve breakthroughs
Andreas Wank Dr.-Ing., Head of Smart Innovation, Pepperl+Fuchs SE
To remain competitive in a fast-changing environment, Pepperl+Fuchs is transforming its innovation processes through a smart, digital approach. A central element is the introduction of a professional PLM management approach, ensuring seamless information flow across domains and business units and enabling the Digital Twin. Pepperl+Fuchs’ three-year PLM journey began with a clear strategy and value proposition, securing C-level sponsorship. It included requirement analysis, software selection, and the identification of key capabilities such as Requirements Engineering, a holistic multi-BOM approach, and Digital Twin integration—all within a comprehensive scope from concept to manufacturing. With implementation and rollout underway, a strong focus on organisational change management has been key to success. This presentation shares key insights and lessons learned from one of the most collaborative innovation efforts at Pepperl+Fuchs to date.

Driving Innovation In The Industry: Harnessing Cross-Enterprise Collaboration with Digital Twin Technologies
PROSTEP IVIP Collaborative Digital Twin project (Cross Enterprise Engineering Collaboration working group)
Many industries, such as the automotive sector, are experiencing a transformative period, presenting new challenges and opportunities for growth and innovation. New competition is advancing rapidly in developing high-quality products at competitive prices. There is an exciting push for enhanced connectivity, system adaptivity, and autonomous driving capabilities. To thrive, OEMs and Tier-X suppliers must embrace electrification, efficiently coordinate hardware and software development, and establish ecosystems that enable faster and more cost-effective industrialisation. Real-time collaboration is key, not only among OEMs and Tier-X suppliers, but also with start-ups, manufacturing subcontractors, and infrastructure providers. As part of PROSTEP IVIP’s Collaborative Digital Twin project, the Cross Enterprise Engineering Collaboration working group is defining best practices and enablers for joint product and process design, from requirements management and systems engineering to co-simulation, testing, and manufacturing engineering. This presentation will provide an overview of six characteristic user journeys and associated collaboration best practices, explain how to set up a decentralised collaboration architecture leveraging the newest technologies, and share initial results from corresponding demonstrators.

Networking Break & Collaboration Café

Trust, Small Changes, and Transformation: Redefining PLM at Assa Abloy via a Modular Approach
Ashwath Sooriyanarayanan, Senior PLM Solution Architect, ASSA ABLOY Group
Sofia Lindgren, Global PLM MCAD Product Owner, ASSA ABLOY Group
Given its frequent acquisitions, ASSA ABLOY has faced challenges in implementing a traditional monolithic PLM system, often resulting in user resistance. In early 2024, drawing on insights from previous PLM Road Map & PDT conferences, ASSA ABLOY shifted from a centralised, single-source-of-truth model to a more flexible, modular ecosystem. This new federated strategy acknowledges the diverse tools and processes across its global business units, moving from a one-size-fits-all approach. By leveraging lightweight PDM, federated data access, and APIs, ASSA ABLOY is driving a bottom-up transformation that focuses on local needs and achieves early wins. The modular architecture enables a practical, evolving digital thread for cross-system traceability without heavy standardisation. At the core is a commitment to simple, open systems that are intuitive to use and easy to integrate, with a focus on user needs. This approach builds trust and fosters a collaborative culture by empowering users with easy-to-use, modular tools that enhance their productivity. ASSA ABLOY promotes adoption through simplicity, flexibility, and support. This presentation will explore how this approach not only modernises the data landscape but also prepares the organisation for future innovations, such as Generative AI.

Humans cannot be transformed – but we can help them!
Jos Voskuil, Industry Expert, TACIT
Humanity is undergoing a profound transformation driven by digital advancements and AI. This shift impacts our society, habits, and personal lives. This presentation will explore how, with the emerging capabilities of AI, there are both opportunities and challenges, and how companies can support their most valuable assets – their people – on their digital journey. By learning from the past and preparing for a fast-paced future, we can transition from being merely coordinated to truly connected. This change is not just about technology; it’s about putting people at the center of everything. Get inspired and learn how to support your personal and your company’s journey!

16:00 | Conference Adjourns