Skills Training in CNC Manufacturing
Skills Training in CNC Manufacturing
Employment has been shifting for at least a decade in the manufacturing world. Manufacturing has continued to grow in North America, but schools and government programs have not addressed the need with suitable training programs. With more advances coming in technology, like robotics and intelligent software, the need to keep current employees educated is also growing. Many manufacturers that either produce and use CNC machines are partnering with local colleges and universities to offer guidance for the training needed in the workforce and almost guaranteeing placements on graduation. But there are also advantages for skills training in CNC manufacturing directly from the tool and machine manufacturer. This may address the imminent shortage quicker.
First, a little about the industry shift. The fear of robots and lights-out manufacturing taking jobs is unfounded. Repetitive and often dangerous jobs are being filled by new approaches in technology while more thought-based jobs are growing. Manufacturing positions in the United States, for example, are estimated to be around 3.5 million by 2025. The available people to fill those jobs are only around 1.5 million. There has been a steady shift to point secondary school graduates to white-collar work. Many trades are in a deficit of young, new employees because of this. Trades and manufacturing both pay well and there are several approaches to getting the skills to the potential new hires.
What Happened to the Machinist?
The role of a machinist has changed since the onset of computer numerical control (CNC) machines. The machine, itself, can calibrate speed, tool selection, and cutting approach, and the programmer reads the blueprints to set the CAD/CAM system up for each piece.
