Before diving into specific technologies, I’m applying my Lean Six Sigma training to define what skills actually matter in advanced manufacturing.
Traditional manufacturing training creates specialists in individual technologies, but Industry 4.0 requires integrators who can connect PLCs, robotics, vision systems, MES, and AI into cohesive smart manufacturing solutions.
What Industry Leaders Are Saying: From my network at Valex, Meggitt, and beyond:
– “We need people who understand the whole system, not just one component”
– “Integration thinking is more valuable than programming expertise”
– “Troubleshooting complex interactions between systems is our biggest challenge”
Critical to Quality Skills Identified:
1. System Integration: Connecting disparate technologies.
2. Data Flow Design: Understanding how information moves through smart factories.
3. Risk Assessment: Evaluating automation ROI and implementation risks.
4. Cross-Functional Communication: Bridging IT, OT, and business teams.