Future proofing the engineering workforce

The digital transformation of the engineering sector continues apace, and there have been some exciting new developments in recent months and years which are fundamentally changing the way the sector operates. The fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0) is well underway, which is placing pressure on the sector from all angles. Strict regulations, a fast market, and an ongoing talent shortage are key factors pushing businesses to keep up with the demand to digitise. Here we’ve looked into how the sector is changing and picked out the key considerations for businesses. 

How to tackle industrial change within engineering and manufacturing

Examples of digitalisation within industrial include the much talked about automation, AI and the Internet of Things, to name but a few. Ensuring you have a talented and diverse workforce at the helm will enable you to navigate through these changes, support, training and structured career development is fundamental to an adaptable team. It is also important that you focus your hiring efforts on attracting new talent and ensuring a strong pipeline of engineering professionals, at all levels. 

The evolution of technology

The key to future proofing your business, is to consider the evolution of your technology rather than the revolution. Making huge overhauls to your technological strategies isn’t the way forward. Instead, think of evolving the technology that you are implementing in a way that helps your business in a step-by-step process. Automation is one of the biggest technological changes impacting the engineering and manufacturing sectors. However, it’s important to provide your employees with the right tools to drive your business forward, as these changes take place.

Tailored strategies

All engineering and manufacturing businesses will have differences in terms of their goals and requirements. Tailoring your approach to future proofing in a way that will benefit your staff and business specifically, is integral to getting the most out of the technologies that are available to you. Consult your existing employees to identify the most crucial needs of your business in terms of technology. The input from your team is useful to help your business future proof. 

Training, collaboration and teamwork

New technologies are near useless without skilled people to operate them. Training is essential to ensure the development of your employees, particularly on the latest equipment, innovations and approaches. Regularly upskilling your team will ensure that they are up-to-date with any changes you are introducing to your business and that you stay ahead of the curve when it comes to technological advances. Consider your team and their individual skill sets. If you believe you have a skills gap in a certain area, then set out training plans that aim to drive your team forward with equal skill sets in their field. When new skills are needed, bring in new hires with experience that can contribute to the future goals of your business.  
In addition to training and development, it is also critical that you are promoting collaboration and teamwork within your business when considering future proofing. Rapid change can isolate some members of the business who aren’t continually exposed to new technologies and tools. Businesses are nothing without well-rounded, learned employees who have a firm understanding of the organisation’s approach to managing changes within the market.
In addition to this, allowing your staff to build relationships by attending industry events to network, will encourage learning around the current market and from other businesses that are similar to yours. 
The engineering and manufacturing sector provides great opportunities for candidates in terms of implementing and working with new technology. Many top candidates are looking to be challenged and the chance to work on a digitalisation change project would be an exciting prospect for professionals looking for their next role. Managing your teams’ training and development will ensure you are best prepared to face future technological changes but to ensure the future of the engineering workforce as a whole, much more needs to be done in terms of selling these opportunities. 
Here at Michael Page, we go to great lengths to get to know our clients to understand how to effectively sell opportunities to candidates. If you would like to discuss how we can help with your recruitment processes, get in touch with your local Michael Page office today. Alternatively, submit a job spec and one of our expert consultants will be in touch.
Ruth Hancock
Operating Director, Michael Page Engineering and Manufacturing
T: 01142 636 023