Responsible AI Deployment in United States Manufacturing Supply Chains

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the manufacturing supply chains of the United States is revolutionizing industries through process optimization and better decision-making and resilience. However, there are significant challenges in this deployment, having to do with governance, accountability, and ethical considerations. As AI systems are applied to manufacturing, the need for responsible AI deployment has become a growing problem. This paper discusses the idea of accountable AI in the context of supply chains in manufacturing, focusing on ensuring accountability, transparency and ethics is maintained throughout the lifecycle of the deployment of an AI. Through the perspective of the AI governance concept and supply chain management (SCM), we examine how the AI systems need to be carefully designed in order to preserve trust and supply chain resilience. A conceptual framework for the deployment of AI is proposed, which emphasizes the AI governance mechanisms, risk management, and accountability structures that are required to assure ethical decision making. Furthermore, the paper discusses issues challenging the manufacturers implementing AI-driven technologies and managerial and policy implications for AI governance. This work adds to the knowledge on how AI-driven innovation can be responsibly integrated with manufacturing supply chains, especially in the US context.