A global software behind Oscar-winning films, 3D printing and car design will discuss the future of manufacturing with firms in the region at a major summit this week.

California-based Autodesk are experts in computer-aided design and the company's products are used in areas as different as construction, architecture, automotive engineering and visual effects. Its software has been used in every visual effects Oscar-winning film for the past 20 years, including Avatar, Gravity and The Matrix.

Asif Moghal, manufacturing industry manager at Autodesk will introduce 'The Future of Making Things - A new era of opportunity and challenge' at Lynford Hall near Thetford tomorrow, as part of the Future of British Manufacturing initiative, which aims to share what other manufacturers are doing to modernise their business.

Businesses from across Norfolk and Suffolk will explain how they are responding to the challenges of what is being called the 'fourth industrial revolution' - the term used to describe the modern mix of advanced manufacturing with smart technology.

Jamie Thums, chair of the New Anglia Advanced Manufacturing group, said: 'With the pace of technological development quickening, in addition to maintaining a competitive edge, the biggest challenge is to lead this charge.

'The Future of Making Things event seeks to provide the forum for organisations to connect and discuss how the region's businesses can prosper and be leaders in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.'

Professor Sir Mike Gregory, retired head of the Institute for Advanced Manufacturing at Cambridge University will provide the keynote speech, with contributions from other industry leaders.

The meeting comes just weeks after the launch of the Cambridge-Norwich Tech Corridor, which identified growth areas in manufacturing along the A11, with the aim of boosting the economy by £558m in the next 15 years.

Chris Starkie, managing director of the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership, said the event was recognition of 'the importance and potential of manufacturing' in Suffolk and Norfolk.

'Through business support and investment in infrastructure and skills we're making the East an even better proposition for new investment,' he said.

'Autodesk's expertise can only help current and new businesses in the East achieve their potential and grow our economy.'

Are you involved in the 'fourth industrial revolution'? Email mark.shields@archant.co.uk