More than 2,000 PMETs to benefit with new robotics training
1. A new training programme was launched today to kick off a 5-step training pathway on industrial automation. This initiative comes at a critical time as Singapore’s manufacturing landscape is evolving to Industry 4.0. Today, even the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are gearing up to harness the potential of robotics, automation and digitalization to be Industry 4.0 ready. As such, there is a need to build capabilities and know-how for Singaporeans in areas like Robotics and Automation (R&A).
2. The newly-announced programmes by Robotics Application Centre of Excellence (RACE) is a tripartite effort with e2i (Employment and Employability Institute) and Workforce Singapore (WSG) to support both individuals, local System Integrators (SI) and SMEs to strengthen capabilities for progression and to be future-ready. The certified training is designed to meet the needs of individuals ranging from those with no experience in Robotics & Automation (R&A) to experienced engineers and technicians who want to upgrade their skillset in the R&A field. More than 2,000 PMETs are set to benefit from the affordability of the courses that will be supported by e2i and WSG. (See Annex 1 for details on RACE’s Skills Training Programme)
3. RACE’s training content is jointly developed by professors from Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and industry robotic leaders including ABB, DELTA ELECTRONICS, KAWASAKI, NACHI and UNIVERSAL ROBOTS. RACE engages the trade associations, public, private and academic sectors focusing on Industry 4.0 changes within Singapore and Southeast Asia to keep its content updated, practical and relevant. In conjunction with the launch, a robotics master class was held at a hi-tech robotics training facility with various robots and a full suite of automation products needed to build an automation line. About 40 participants from various companies picked up new knowledge and skills through relevant hands-on experience.
4. With the aim to build competencies and capabilities for Industry 4.0, RACE signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with e2i and WSG for a period of one year. The MOU signifies the partners’ commitment to collaborate closely together to close skills gaps, enhance workers’ training needs and support employers as they make the shift to Industry 4.0.
5. Another MOU was signed between e2i, Singapore Precision Engineering and Technology Association (SPETA) and RACE so that SPETA members can benefit from RACE offerings. RACE and SPETA will co-develop standardized or modular and scalable solutions to support SPETA members and other SMEs in the industry. e2i will fund the mass adoption of these solutions using e2i’s Inclusive Growth Programme or WorkPro’s Job Redesign Grant.
6. Mr. Gilbert Tan, CEO of e2i says, “Industry 4.0 is the future of productivity and growth for the manufacturing industry, and both working people and employers need to be prepared to transform and stay relevant. The launch of new robotics training programmes will equip individuals to upgrade their skills to take on higher-value tasks and progress as the industry evolves. Employers also need to be supported in identifying skills gaps, continuously building capabilities and investing in workers’ upgrading. Through this collaboration, e2i will work closely with partners to help employers and workers to manage and work alongside new technologies.”
7. Mr. Ang Chai Soon, Director, Manufacturing Division of WSG said, “Singapore’s manufacturing sector is facing intensifying competition as many countries around the world are actively strengthening their manufacturing capabilities. To ensure that our manufacturing companies and workforce remain globally competitive, the RACE’s training programme seeks to transfer capabilities in automation and robotics from subject matter experts to the local. These workshops will help professionals acquire new skills, enabling them to remain relevant amid the rapid changes in the manufacturing sector. WSG will continue to work with partners including RACE to support local enterprises in adopting advanced robotics and automation technologies to drive their competitiveness and business growth”.
8. RACE is encouraged by the strong interest shown by the SMEs and we are committed to provide bite size robotics technology skills training to support the industry to be future-ready, said Derrick Yap. RACE is expected to launch its first class on the 11 January 2017. Interested participants can visit https://raceacademy.com.sg/ for more information.