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Acquiring Key Skills in Industrial Automation for Smart Manufacturing

Are you ready? 

Advanced manufacturing and automation are two of the most transformative technologies of our time. They are reshaping the way we produce goods and services, increasing efficiency and productivity, and driving economic growth. As we look to the future, it is clear that these technologies will continue to play a critical role in shaping our world.

The global electronics industry is expected to increase from the reported US$2.2 trillion in 2020 to US$3.3 trillion in 2030¹. Automation, 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and the electrification of vehicles will all contribute to this rise. These applications will raise the need for semiconductors, which could turn into a sector with tremendous growth potential for Singapore.
 
One of the key trends in advanced manufacturing is the increasing use of robotics and automation. These technologies are being used to automate repetitive and dangerous tasks, allowing manufacturers to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase safety. For example, robots are being used to automate the manufacturing of automobiles and electronics, allowing companies to produce goods faster, with higher precision and lower costs. 

Another upcoming trend is the integration of new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). These technologies are being used to create "smart factories" that can automatically adapt to changing production demands and optimise productivity. For example, AI can be used to analyse data from sensors and machines to identify potential problems and take corrective action before machine breakdown, while IoT can be used to connect machines, robots, and other equipment to improve monitoring and control. 

In addition to the benefits they bring to manufacturing, advanced manufacturing and automation have a positive impact on our workforce too. The automation of repetitive tasks will lead to the creation of new, higher-skilled jobs in areas such as robotics and AI. This creates opportunities for retraining and upskilling of our workforce to take advantage of these new technologies, making it more highly-skilled, knowledge-based, and globally competitive.

As we look ahead to 2023, advanced manufacturing and automation will continue to be critical drivers of innovation and economic growth. Companies that invest in these technologies will be well-positioned to stay competitive in the global marketplace, while policymakers and educators will need to work together to ensure that the workforce is amply equipped to take leverage these advancements. 

SIMTech is committed to equipping our manufacturing workforce to support long-term advancements in advanced manufacturing and automation.   on 18 January as Dr Lin Wei & Dr Teck Chew share about the rising need to upskill in areas of automation to move from labour intensive operations to resource efficiency, productivity, and profitability in advanced manufacturing.


About the Trainers
Dr Lin Wei's research interests are in industrial robotics for precision process and material handling automation. He has been a technical and project leader for over 50 major industrial automation projects for the precision engineering, aerospace, electronics, logistics and marine & offshore industries. Currently he is a Senior Scientist in SIMTech.

Dr Ng Teck Chew obtained his BEng and MSc in computer control and automation from Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in 1991 and 1997 respectively. He obtained his PhD (2009) from NTU. His thesis researched into the effects of sensor uncertainties for vehicle tracking and following.

Sources:
¹https://www.aseanbriefing.com/news/implementing-industry-4-0-in-singapores-manufacturing-sector/