Addressing skills shortages in robotics and automation

Robotics may conjure up the idea that the human workforce is on the decline. Nothing could be further from the truth. The latest study by the International Federation of Robotics forecasts that two million jobs are to be created worldwide in the next eight years because of the robotics industry. Engineering UK also insists a looming skills gap is on the immediate horizon, with itsThe State of Engineering reportmaintaining that the UK needs around 87,000 graduate level engineers per year over the next ten years: 2013 was 36,000 short of this.

As we enter National Apprenticeship Week 2014 (3-7 March), three young apprentices in the robotics and automation sector share their experiences, recent successes and aspirations for the future. Employed by Pacepacker Services, Sumitomo (SHI) Demag and FANUC, all three original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are forging ahead and addressing the skills gaps in manufacturing and engineering.

At Pacepacker’s Essex-based manufacturing company, 22-year-old Andrew Lufkin actively sought out his apprenticeship two years ago, consciously choosing ‘on-the-job’ training over soaring university fees. After completing a one year City & Guilds level 2 certificate in Engineering (manufacturing technology) through Colchester Institute, he has now embarked on the two-year level 3 course. Just last September, Andrew scooped ‘Apprentice of the Year’ accolade at the Essex Business Awards.

Pacepacker – which manufactures bagging, robot palletising and pick and place equipment – takes on between one and two apprentices a year. With just 17 employees, the ratio might appear high, however Managing Director Dennis Allison is a strong advocate of apprenticeships and the value they bring to the business: “Apprenticeships offer a route to harness fresh new talent, ensuring that our workforce has the practical skills and qualifications we need now and in the future. Andrew has proved himself to be a natural engineer.”

Andrew continues: “The best part about the scheme is the hands on learning and the opportunity to earn money at the same time. While initially teaching me the basics, Pacepacker has been great in letting me explore and ‘have a go’, which has shaped my confidence. Apprenticeships are an eye opener to the working world: it’s taught me discipline, punctuality, how to prioritise and accountability – although the host company offers the opportunity to succeed, ultimately it is down to the individual to make it happen.”

Another fervent supporter of apprenticeships is Sumitomo (SHI) Demag. The company, which supplies and imports plastic injection moulding machinery that make everything from bottle caps to car headlamps, took on Parts Assistant, Stuart Brookes just 12-months ago as a business and administration apprenticeship. He has already finished his training and gained a level 3 diploma in Business & Administration along the way.

To-date, Sumitomo has taken on three apprentices; all of them remain within the company and continue to climb the career ladder. Stuart comments: “This apprenticeship was a brilliant opportunity to combine my interest in ICT and business with my passion for engineering and discovering how machines work. I’ve enjoyed learning about different component parts, what they do, how they work and the context in which they’re used. I look forward to increasing my knowledge, taking on additional responsibilities, building customer relationships and progressing through the company.”

Managing Director, Nigel Flowers, adds: “As the UK continues to compete on the global manufacturing and engineering stage, we need to continue investing in our future talent and up-skilling our workforce. I’m delighted that Sumitomo is doing its bit to pave the way for young people seeking a future in the growing engineering community.”

Employers that invest in apprenticeships are also reaping the benefits when it comes to workforce loyalty. Figures from the Department of Business, Innovation & Skills (BIS) suggest that two-thirds of apprentices will stay with their employer.

For global automation and robotics supplier FANUC, all six apprentices that completed their four-year programme continue to work at the Coventry-based firm. This includes Michelle Bottrill, who 16 years on is FANUC’s Parts, Training and Service Sales Manager. Craig Taylor, an apprentice in 2002, is now based at FANUC’s European Headquarters in Luxembourg. As well as practically, FANUC apprentices are actively encouraged to progress academically. Tom Sullivan, a year-four apprentice, is currently studying engineering at university.

“The skills required in the robotics industry are not unique but they are multi-disciplined, so developing our own engineers with the core skill requirements makes a lot of sense,” explains FANUC UK Technical Manager, Darren Whittall. “The greatest thing about the robotics sector is the wide variety of jobs within it. From apprenticeships to PhD students, there are plenty of entry points and loads of scope for progression.”

Visit the FANUC website or the Pacepacker Services website for more information.

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