The “AI Masterclass,” which included our AI Navigator sessions, has come to an end. On September 9, 2026, our group met for the last time in its current configuration to document our findings, review what we had learned and implemented, take stock, and look ahead to the future.

How can artificial intelligence and MS Copilot be used in practice in day-to-day procurement?
An exclusive training session held on September 10, 2026, at our NIRO Hafenraum addressed this question. We invited procurement managers who are actively involved in our Procurement Working Group, the negotiation groups, and the further development of our procurement pool.

For the fifth time, talented individuals from our member companies have completed the training program offered by the NIRO Academy. Motivated young professionals participated in the program to further their professional and personal development over the course of about five months.

Have you ever heard of AI agents? I’m sure you have—the hype just keeps going.
In an in-depth workshop on this topic held on June 8, 2026, we explored what AI agents are all about and how they work.

Our workshop was aimed at participants who already had a basic understanding of AI and wanted to delve deeper into the technical aspects. It was led by Marco Fries from the Zukunftszentrum AI NRW, who gave us a hands-on introduction to the world of (open-source-based) AI agents.

As part of our “Made in Westphalia” series, which we organize in collaboration with the SIHK in Hagen, we visited our member company ERCO GmbH in Lüdenscheid on June 9, 2026. This internationally active family-owned company is known for innovative and energy-efficient architectural lighting based on modern LED technology and has a global presence through its own sales and partner organizations. ERCO is characterized by holistic lighting solutions that combine technological expertise with the highest standards of design and environmental responsibility.