The manufacturing industry worldwide is seeing a large amount of growth, and many predictions say this momentum will continue. Much of this increase can be contributed to the adoption of automation and new technologies that not only simplify processes but speed manufacturing output. Below, we will talk about what that means for workers who are already working in the field of manufacturing automation, and those who may be thinking of entering this industry.
Looking Ahead In 2020
Despite global manufacturing being in an upturn, inversely, manufacturing jobs are continuing to decline. In Canada, this past November, 71.2 thousand jobs were lost across the country – 28,000 of those from the manufacturing sector.
The good news, however, is that as new manufacturing processes, technology, and automation become more mainstream they will require workers to be trained in programming and proper maintenance of this new equipment. Here are 3 robotic and employment trends to watch for over the coming year:
1. Automation Advancements
Throughout the third quarter of 2019, global robotics sales were up by 1.3 billion dollars. Part of this increase can be attributed to the increasing popularity of collaborative robots, known as Cobots. Seen in a variety of roles including cleaning, healthcare, and automotive manufacturing, Cobots are versatile robots meant to work alongside human workers. They increase human workplace safety by handling tedious and dangerous tasks, but still require human interaction during the process. As more industries adopt robotic technology, skilled workers will be required to take on these collaborative roles.
2. Increased Distribution
As automation continues to be implemented into manufacturing processes, we will see an increase in distribution for a number of reasons. Robots can handle repetitive, strenuous and potentially hazardous tasks that can cause strain to human workers. As a result, worker safety is increased and downtime associated with injuries is reduced, thus allowing manufacturing plants to run with very little downtime.
Additionally, automation has opened the opportunity for smaller-scale manufacturers to compete in the global market. This diversification will add to the overall increased distribution.
3. Upgrading Skills
Colleges and universities have already begun to adapt to the changing landscape of automated manufacturing. You can find mechanical and electrical engineering programs that are geared towards workers both upgrading current skills, and those newly entering the workforce.
With a higher than average starting salary and competitive employment opportunities, automation engineers will very likely be in high demand over the coming years. The US Bureau of Labour Statistics outlines some of the skills required by individuals who can hit the ground running in an automation engineering career, they include:
- A firm understanding of software development and computer programming
- Equipment troubleshooting skills
- Performing complex system tests
- Creative thinking
- Being detail-oriented
- Excellent manual dexterity
- Strong communication skills
4. Manufacturing Technology
As manufacturing continues to evolve in 2020, precision is becoming just as critical as speed and automation. Advanced CNC brake presses, laser cutting, and digitally controlled forming equipment are enabling tighter tolerances, repeatability across short and long production runs, and faster changeovers without sacrificing quality. At the same time, increased focus on environmental exposure, cleanliness, and durability is driving greater attention to enclosure design and IP ratings, particularly in sectors such as automotive, food and beverage, life sciences, and electronics. Manufacturers are no longer treating ingress protection as an afterthought; instead, IP compliance is being designed in from the outset, influencing material selection, sealing strategies, and fabrication methods. Together, these trends reflect a broader shift toward smarter, more robust, and more precise manufacturing processes that are built to perform reliably in real-world production environments.
Careers in Automation Manufacturing
Do you think a career in the automation manufacturing industry would be a good fit for you? Innovative Automation has over 25 years in the automation industry and has been an ‘Employee Recommended Workplace’ for two years running. They have also been named one of Canada’s Safest Employers by Canadian Occupational Safety four times.
Innovative Automation works closely with a number of schools, including Georgian College and Lakehead Univerisity, with many employees being hired directly from their programs upon completion. Innovative Automation’s 87,000 square foot facility operates with a team of skilled workers and automated machines, manufacturing a variety of products which include automotive parts, medical devices, and consumer goods for the global market.
To learn more about our innovative manufacturing and automation processes, or to learn about our employment opportunities, contact us today.