UK Manufacturing Seeks the Next Generation of Automation Experts

April 11, 2024
UK Manufacturing Seeks the Next Generation of Automation Experts

The UK manufacturing industry stands at a critical juncture. Faced with an ageing workforce and increasing global competition, the sector must embrace automation and invest in the education of future generations to secure its long-term success. At Deploy, we recognise that developing a digitally skilled talent pool is not merely an option – it's a necessity for businesses looking to thrive in the era of Industry 4.0.

The numbers tell a stark story. With nearly 20% of the UK manufacturing workforce aged 55 or above and less than a tenth under 25, the industry risks losing a wealth of experience and knowledge as veteran employees retire. This looming skills gap underscores the urgent need to cultivate a new generation of automation experts, capable of driving innovation and efficiency in an increasingly tech-driven landscape.

Compounding this challenge is the UK's relatively low adoption of automation compared to other industrialised nations. While countries like Germany boast nearly 400 robots per 10,000 employees, the UK's robot density sits at a mere 111. To bridge this gap and boost productivity, manufacturers must not only invest in advanced technologies but also in the human capital needed to harness their full potential.

Education holds the key to unlocking this potential. By integrating automation and robotics into curricula at all levels – from primary schools to universities – we can inspire and equip young people with the skills they need to succeed in the manufacturing jobs of tomorrow. This requires a concerted effort from industry, academia, and government to develop engaging, industry-relevant programmes that blend theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience.

Organisations like FANUC UK are leading the charge in this regard. Through initiatives such as their Training Academy and partnerships with schools and colleges, FANUC is helping to demystify automation and provide students with valuable, accredited learning opportunities. By bringing education and industry closer together, these programmes are laying the foundation for a more dynamic, innovation-driven manufacturing sector.

However, nurturing new talent is only part of the solution. To truly capitalise on the benefits of automation, manufacturers must also cultivate in-house expertise through reskilling and upskilling. By building dedicated automation teams and embedding these capabilities into their core operations, businesses can foster a culture of continuous improvement, reduce reliance on external support, and unlock new opportunities for growth.

This shift towards in-house automation is already gaining traction in sectors like automotive and e-commerce, where forward-thinking companies are reaping the rewards of a more agile, responsive approach to technology adoption. As the UK manufacturing industry evolves, we expect to see more businesses follow suit, recognising the value of a highly skilled, internally driven automation strategy.

Securing the future of UK manufacturing requires a collective effort from all stakeholders. By working together to prioritise automation education, foster in-house expertise, and create a supportive ecosystem for innovation, we can position the UK as a global leader in advanced manufacturing.

At Deploy, we're committed to being a catalyst for this change. As a trusted partner to the manufacturing industry, we understand the challenges and opportunities that automation presents. Our team of specialist recruiters is dedicated to connecting businesses with the talent they need to navigate this new landscape – from experienced automation engineers to the brightest emerging stars in the field.

Whether you're a manufacturer looking to embrace new forms of automation, or a talented professional seeking to make your mark in the industry – now is the time to act. At Deploy, we stand ready to support you on this journey, helping to build a stronger, more resilient manufacturing sector that's ready to meet the challenges of the future head-on.

December 18, 2024
December is a month of magic, and nowhere is this more apparent than in the dazzling transformation of iconic rail stations and infrastructure projects worldwide
December 11, 2024
The holiday season is synonymous with joy, celebration, and gift-giving, but behind the scenes, there’s a complex logistical operation that ensures festive cheer reaches homes across the country. Rail freight plays a pivotal role in this process, moving everything from toys to Christmas trees and festive foods to ensure the shelves stay stocked and the spirit of the season remains unbroken. Here’s how the rail industry rises to the challenge of keeping the season bright and bustling. The Backbone of Holiday Supply Chains As the calendar flips to December, the demand for goods soars to meet holiday expectations. Rail freight becomes a critical artery in the logistics network, moving large volumes of cargo efficiently, sustainably, and reliably. From major ports to regional distribution hubs, trains transport an incredible variety of goods, ensuring stores are stocked and online orders fulfilled. This vital role is especially evident in transporting: Festive Foods : Fresh produce, canned goods, and seasonal treats like mince pies and chocolates make their way to retailers. Toys and Gifts : Rail moves massive quantities of toys, electronics, and other popular holiday items from manufacturers to warehouses and stores. Decorations and Essentials : Everything from Christmas trees to wrapping paper finds its way via freight cars. By alleviating road congestion and reducing carbon footprints, rail ensures that the supply chain operates at its peak without compromising sustainability. The Workforce Behind the Tracks Making this happen requires a dedicated workforce operating around the clock. From freight operators to infrastructure maintenance crews, teams across the rail sector work tirelessly to ensure seamless service during the busiest time of the year. This period also demands: Skilled Engineers to ensure the rail infrastructure can handle increased traffic. Freight Coordinators to optimise cargo loads and minimise delays. Maintenance Teams to keep everything on schedule, even in winter weather conditions. Recruitment strategies play a key role in meeting these demands. Deploy supports the industry by connecting organisations with professionals who possess the expertise and commitment needed to navigate this high-pressure season. Infrastructure Projects Supporting Supply Chain Resilience Rail’s holiday success story isn’t just about moving goods; it’s also about preparing the infrastructure to handle the load. Modernisation projects, expanded freight corridors, and cutting-edge technology ensure rail can meet increasing demand, not only during December but all year round. Advancements such as real-time tracking systems and improved scheduling software enable greater efficiency in managing the seasonal spike. These innovations underscore the industry’s commitment to delivering more than just packages – they’re delivering reliability, sustainability, and satisfaction. Overcoming Seasonal Challenges Winter presents unique obstacles, including adverse weather conditions and increased pressure on the network. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can disrupt rail operations, making maintenance and contingency planning essential. Despite these challenges, the rail industry consistently rises to the occasion. By investing in winterisation efforts, including de-icing technology and weather-resilient infrastructure, rail networks ensure that supply chains remain uninterrupted. A Season of Connection Beyond the goods it moves, rail embodies the spirit of connection during the holidays. It connects families, communities, and businesses, enabling the celebrations we all cherish. Its contribution to the supply chain is a reminder that the holiday season’s magic relies on teamwork, dedication, and meticulous planning. Let Deploy Support Your Holiday Operations As the rail industry continues to play a crucial role in delivering Christmas cheer, we at Deploy are proud to support its efforts. Whether you’re strengthening your freight operations or seeking talented professionals to meet seasonal demand, Deploy can help you deliver. Contact our recruitment experts today and ensure your supply chain runs smoothly this holiday season and beyond. Together, let’s keep the holidays on track!
December 4, 2024
As December rolls in, so does one of the busiest times of the year for rail networks
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