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Automation is changing Employment

As automation is changing employment is becoming more ubiquitous throughout the manufacturing industry, manufacturers are adopting the latest techniques to assist with the efficiency of their manufacturing processes. 

Automated machines and robots are changing the very essence of precision manufacturing with dramatic increases in efficiency and production. The growing popularity has generated discussion about how automation is changing employment in the manufacturing sector. 

Many question if automated machines and robots will replace skilled workers. Research reveals that such fears may be a bit premature based on which tasks can be automated,  new positions that will be available to skilled workers, and new jobs that will  be created through automation. 

It appears that automation and robotic technologies will be the way of the future for manufacturers across the globe so it is important that we familiarize ourselves with such technologies, understand their significance and embrace them for what they’re worth.

What are automation and robotic technologies?

 

Generally speaking, when people think of automation they think of it on a large scale; for instance automobile manufacturing. However, automation can be connected to machine tools in many other ways.  A manufacturer can start with general automation such as connecting a bar feeder to a lathe. Additional steps could result in automated cells tending to the manufactured part from beginning to end. Automation can include robots that pack and clear out machines, or gantry systems that are anchored to the tool or operate on their own. Conveyors have the ability to move material from one place to another with turn or flip stations that can rotate a part for the next procedure. The reality is, that by automating a production floor, a manufacturing facility can increase its productivity, minimize cycle times, reduce lead times, enhance quality, become more competitive, and create a safer work environment. 

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The significance of automation and robotics


In hindsight, the implementation of automation and robotics is quite advantageous for manufacturers and outweighs the challenges, as it can boost efficiency and productivity. Research has shown that manufacturers see a 30-percent boost in production by utilizing automated technology and/or robotics. The reality is that an efficient production routine allows for increased output and enables manufacturers to be more competitive. While owners of manufacturing facilities may appreciate the gain from implementing automation/robotics, some of their employees may fear their job is on the line because of such technology. However, such fear is far from true as automated technology and robots give way for skilled workers to grow into different opportunities as new positions are created. The dependence on automation/robotics creates the demand for expert maintenance and technician jobs, just as CNC machines required machinists with programming capabilities.

The significance of automation and robotics

 

In hindsight, the implementation of automation and robotics is quite advantageous for manufacturers and outweighs the challenges, as it can boost efficiency and productivity. Research has shown that manufacturers see a 30-percent boost in production by utilizing automated technology and/or robotics. The reality is that an efficient production routine allows for increased output and enables manufacturers to be more competitive. While owners of manufacturing facilities may appreciate the gain from implementing automation/robotics, some of their employees may fear their job is on the line because of such technology. However, such fear is far from true as automated technology and robots give way for skilled workers to grow into different opportunities as new positions are created. The dependence on automation/robotics creates the demand for expert maintenance and technician jobs, just as CNC machines required machinists with programming capabilities.

The future of automation

 

As we can see with current technologies such as Amazon’s Alexa, Tesla,  Google’s voice assistants, Apple’s Siri, and even the automated capabilities of lights-out technology that manufacturers have adopted, automation/robotic technology will continue to grow. In terms of manufacturing, automation will give way for manufacturers to have a competitive edge, however, it will not fix the natural problems that occur in production. For example, in the metal manufacturing industry, when a machine is out of control, or chip control is a problem, automation will not fix those issues, and that is why skilled workers will always be needed. 

 

Automation and robotics are definitely going to change employment in the manufacturing sector, and this change will be contingent on how fast automation advances and skilled labour can keep pace. By investing and training workers, manufacturers can ensure that their employees are in a secure position.  There is some trepidation beyond manufacturing that automation/robotic technology will overthrow us as we’ve seen in fantasy movies like iRobot and Bladerunner. Automation and robotic technology should not be viewed negatively, but, rather, embraced for the benefit it will provide. Through automation and other technologies, like analytics and digital, manufacturing owners can determine output per worker and allot the appropriate task for them. Automated/robotic technology could ignite growth for both skilled labour and manufacturing companies.