Removing the Skills Gap in Manufacturing

This paper will look into the growing problem of the skills gap in manufacturing. The speed at which technology is changing in the work place is phenomenal. Many of the manual functions of the past are run from computers. Computers run many of the machining functions; computer controllers are keeping track of every move the tools make, robots move parts from one operation to the next and conveyor systems controlled by computers that move the parts in automated cells. Processes that originally required ten or more employees now only need two or three. The dilemma is that these two or three employees need to be highly skilled in many areas of the process not just the operation of one machine in the process. This is where in the problem lies. How do companies address this skills gap in order to bring their employees to a skill level that will afford a level of confidence in operating of the automated processes that are now being implemented into our manufacturing systems? Many of the newest technologies are obsolete before they hit the floor. Organizations will need to evaluate their need for upgrading their technology to keep up with the competition. Will the implementation of new technology be essential in the future of the manufacturing process and staying ahead of the competition? What will the learning curve be for the new technology? Can training in advance of the implementation be feasible? Are the employees adding to their existing skill set or will this new technology require a new skill for them to learn? Providing an opportunity for training is only part of the answer. Many of the employees have not had structured education for many years or do not have the skill set needed for the new technologies that are being released. Removing the fear in the workplace so that everyone may work effectively for the company, institute a vigorous program of education and self-improvement, and allow the employee the freedom to have pride in their work will make the transition as painless as possible for the employee and the organization.