Innovation. Technology. Robotics. Data. Design. Some big-ticket items for manufacturing. They’re all front of mind when I think about factories of the future. 

Terms like “smart factory,” “industrial internet of things” (IIoT), and “Industry 4.0” have entered everyday manufacturing discourse. Devices and machines are increasingly interconnected so they can share information and communicate with each other. With these advances in technology, the shop floor can be directly connected with decision makers, and production data can be collected and analysed in real time.  They enable timely operational improvements and better-informed decisions.

Ground-breaking developments in automation and robotics are here – and more are coming down the line. Such technologies incorporate advanced sensors, artificial intelligence (AI) and other capabilities which allow them to perform tasks with high levels of efficiency. They help to increase overall productivity for manufacturers.

All of these developments get me pondering about the jobs in these factories of the future. In turn, I think about skills (I would, wouldn’t I?) – needs are shifting, and are going to have to shift even more. 

The future of skills across the sector is not just about filling today’s needs; there’s a need to (re)evaluate the work and prepare the workforce of tomorrow. But to the point about filling today’s needs, there’s a gap to fill already. 

Robotics in manufacturing are often used takes on highly repetitive jobs or tasks that are less appealing for human labour because they are higher risk.  

We need people with the right skills to work alongside these robots.

According to Autodesk’s latest Design & Make report, business leaders and experts are bullish on artificial intelligence. Companies are uncovering valuable, industry-specific AI applications – with uses ranging from automated transcription of meeting minutes to assistance laying out factory floors. In the future, leaders and experts predict that generative AI will increasingly help human workers to make crucial design decisions about physical products, buildings, and digital assets.

We need people with the right skills to get the most out of AI.

In today’s interconnected world, manufacturing operates in a complex ecosystem where data reigns supreme. From supply chain management to predictive maintenance, data literacy enables seamless integration and optimisation across the value chain. The digital transformation of manufacturing transcends geographical boundaries. In a global economy, companies operate in a networked environment where collaboration knows no borders. Connectivity and agility enable collaboration with suppliers halfway across the globe or servicing clients on distant shores

We need people who are digitally literate and can interpret what data are telling us.

Whether it’s designing and making intricate components for aerospace engineering or crafting elegant consumer goods, companies are increasingly aware of their environmental responsibilities. They’re making investments in energy efficiency, materials reduction and more sustainable processes that are better for both the environment and the bottom line.

We need people who can design for a green economy.

The changing face of manufacturing demands a paradigm shift in our approach to workforce planning and skills development. Core digital literacy and proficiency in key digital skills are critical for the success of manufacturers around the world.

Yet, the digital divide threatens to amplify existing disparities, leaving behind those who lack access to education and resources. Bridging this gap requires a concerted effort from governments, industries, and educational institutions to open-up access to learning opportunities and equip individuals with the tools they need to thrive in the digital age.

We’re in the business of skilling and education, so like to think we’re playing our part with closing the skills gap – as well as gearing up for the factories of the future, today. We’re constantly looking for exciting ways to support the next generation of designers and manufacturers to develop digital skills they need (and businesses crave).

That’s why we’re now accepting entries from teams of students for Designathon 2024. Our Designathon has a dual purpose. Day one sees students boost their digital design skills, learning about the Autodesk Fusion platform and its key workflows. Then on day two, they work in teams to respond to a challenge, putting their new skills to the test. They work together, they collaborate – and they compete for prizes.

About Designathon 2024: Designing a green tomorrow

In a world where mastery of design software has become non-negotiable, platforms such as Autodesk Fusion have emerged as indispensable assets. Designathon 2024 offers student teams the opportunity to learn how smart design can play a part in the transition towards a more sustainable future. They get to showcase their creativity and design skills in crafting concepts for a better world.

  • Where: online
  • When: 26 and 27 June 2024
  • Sign-up now: Entries are accepted from teams of students – a team of 2 (minimum) or 3 (maximum). 

You can play a part. Get involved – encourage others to take part. Invest in the digital skills manufacturers around the world need today – and will need more of tomorrow. 

Tomas Karlsson is the Sr. Manager of channel services at KnowledgePoint. This means he oversees the management of outsourced extended enterprise learning programmes, recruiting and supporting global network of training providers on behalf of organisations, including Autodesk. 

Organised by KnowledgePoint, Designathon 2024 is part Autodesk’s commitment to education. The two-day online event will see students develop vital digital skills, and compete in the global Designathon challenge.  Find out more about the Designathon 2024 and Autodesk’s commitment to education here.

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