March/April 2020

www.smartmachinesandfactories.com March/April 2020 | 25 | | STRATEGIES | and innovative roles. As a result, the industry will create engaged science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) ambassadors to inspire the next generation. Flexible production Minimising manual configuration improves the perception of engineering careers and can also provide manufacturers with more flexible and customisable production techniques. For example, for machine builders, automated engineering is particularly advantageous as a way to fulfil demand for customised products. Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and machine builders are under pressure to manufacture products in small amounts. Today’s customers want one-off, specialised equipment for their facilities, but producing machinery to meet these unique specifications is a colossal task — at least when completed manually. Using automated engineering, OEMs can use pre-configured modules, as opposed to using one closed system. The module could describe an individual device, a piece of equipment or an equipment group, that are simply connected using Ethernet. By breaking up and replacing the traditionally rigid structures of automation, these modular applications allow OEMs to be more flexible in production. Unlike traditional production management, this process also reduces complexity for employees and eliminates the need for engineers to repetitively program machines. As a result, there is a reduced likelihood of errors and faster time-to-market expectations. Flexible production can therefore kill two birds with one stone, improve staff’s enjoyment of their roles, as well as improving production processes. Threat of automation Unsurprisingly, there are arguments that suggest increasing automation will reduce the need for human workers entirely. According to a study by YouGov, 34% of British workers believe that the introduction of automation could damage their job security. In addition, 22% believe that their wages will be reduced because of new technologies. However, as Engineering UK’s study suggests, that is not the case. Instead, employers in the engineering sector anticipate an increasing need for people with higher level skills — those that hold qualities that can’t be replicated by automation. To some extent, concerns about the threat automation poses to employment are valid. Some jobs are being displaced by the introduction of new technology. However, as this technology increases productivity, efficiency and revenues for manufacturers, entirely new job roles in the engineering sector are being created. Characteristically, engineers want to invent, create and innovate. But, with workflows filled with tedious and repetitive tasks, the engineering workforce is not fulfilling its potential. As opposed to fearing the threat automation poses to jobs, employers must embrace automation and equip their engineers with the skills to work alongside these new technologies. Put simply, the misconception that engineering jobs are boring, repetitive and uncreative will not be present for much longer. But first, the industry needs to highlight the advantages of automation to the sector — it won’t replace jobs, just make them more interesting. CAN  YOU  HELP  US COVID-19, the implications on your working life. Please visit www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/NV5SWYR with a quick survey?