Although advanced systems have decreased the need for unskilled workers, they have also increased the need for skilled labor–putting many factories in a difficult position.
FANUC and Rockwell Automation are pioneers in robotics and automation technologies. They aim to mitigate the gap in manufacturing industries that occurs due to automated manufacturing.
Establishment of a Partnership
To solve these problems, Fanuc, a robotics provider, and Rockwell Automation, an information technology and industrial automation provider, recently established a partnership to develop apprenticeships aimed at enhancing the skills of current and prospective employees for positions in the industry.
APT, an automation systems integrator from Fanuc and Rockwell, and Nocti Business Solutions, a provider of unbiased assessments of workplace standards, use process validation approach recognized by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). In addition, more than 40 production companies have agreed to participate by implementing the recently developed apprenticeship programs.
The US Department of Labor has designated the FANUC and Rockwell alliance as an SRE (Standards Recognition Entity) (Standards Recognition Entity) for robotics and automated automation. This ensures that they have been identified as subject matter specialists with the professional skills required for apprenticeship programs. They also have the credentials required to set standards in the workplace.
Goals of Rockwell/Fanuc Alliance:
The Rockwell / FANUC alliance learning projects have two main goals:
(1) To create a pool of employees with the experience necessary to excel in robotics, automation, and advanced manufacturing.
(2) Help producers achieve their production goals.
Any business involved in filling job openings or upgrading existing workers’ skills will benefit from the apprenticeship coalition preparation. The training is suitable for both current and future employees and developers who are applying for the most up-to-date automation programs.
Both the certification and apprenticeship models are supported by work-study schemes (including pre-apprenticeships). Jobs will typically complete their skills training and receive industry-recognized certifications in less than a year. The certifications are:
- First-level credentials include Robot (basic robotics) and PLC (automation) operators.
- Second-level credentials include robot and PLC technicians.
- Third Level Credentials: Integration Specialist (FANUC-Rockwell Automation Integrated Technology Operation and Troubleshooting).
Michael Cook, Director of Global Academic Organization at Rockwell Automation commented: “As the industry embraces new technologies, it is vital to be able to adapt quickly with a well-trained workforce which will attract new workers to these different positions and improve the skills of existing employees and allow companies to prepare their workforce more quickly.”
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