The shortage of employees poses challenges for companies in the sheet metal manufacturing sector. Especially in welding, companies are finding it difficult to find qualified skilled workers and process orders in a timely manner. Automation helps companies remain competitive despite staff shortages while increasing their productivity. Ramona Hönl, press officer for machine tools, and Gabriel Pankow, press officer for laser technology, will show how this can be achieved at the world's leading welding and cutting trade show.