New Industry 4.0 Training Programs Aim to Quickly Fill In-demand Jobs
March 31, 2023
Series of hands-on programs focusing on job-specific skills needed in various fields offer industry-recognized microcredentials at the FWD Center
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – A growing number of Finger Lakes regional advanced manufacturing-related employers, including suppliers to automotive and health care markets, have adopted automation technologies in their workplaces over the past three years to improve efficiency, productivity and quality. Rapid technological advancements, increased global competition, and a labor shortage are creating a high demand for entry-level technicians skilled in setting up, operating and maintaining automated systems in smart factories.
In response to this rising demand, the Finger Lakes Workforce Development (FWD) Center, through Monroe Community College (MCC) and Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA), will offer a new Certified Industry 4.0 Control Systems Specialist program starting in April and a new Certified Industry 4.0 Associate program starting in May. Eligible students may qualify for financial aid and scholarships. The program series will focus on Industry 4.0-related skills that are, or likely to be, in demand in an advanced manufacturing environment across various industries. The FWD Center is the only training provider in the region to offer the programs.
“We are seeing increased movement toward Industry 4.0 automated environments in our region’s businesses. This movement was in play before the pandemic and has accelerated during the last few years. Automation is only going to expand in our region,” said Robin Cole Jr., D.Sc., vice president for Economic and Workforce Development and Career Technical Education at MCC. “A strong skillset that has emerged is that of an industrial maintenance mechanic who can operate and maintain equipment that interfaces with robotics, cobots and such technologies. These jobs pay family-sustaining wages.”
The 18-week Certified Industry 4.0 Control Systems Specialist program prepares individuals to succeed as a controls technician in modern production environments, with skills in installing, troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining industrial control systems using sensors, programmable logic controllers, and variable frequency drives. Additionally, individuals learn industrial maintenance with a focus on using mobile/cloud technology, performing preventive maintenance, analyzing machine history, reducing downtime, and using basic troubleshooting skills.
The 20-week Certified Industry 4.0 Associate program provides a comprehensive introduction to the technical aspects of smart manufacturing. It prepares participants for success as a team lead operator in a modern production environment, with skills in operating industrial robots and automated technologies; analyzing and modifying control systems; and optimizing system operation. Participants also learn preventive and predictive maintenance of these systems.
Both programs combine online learning with hands-on training in a cutting-edge smart factory that simulates a production system in the advanced manufacturing workplace.
Upon completing the programs, participants receive specific SACA microcredentials and job-placement assistance. Graduates can immediately enter the workforce or continue training to pursue other career paths. The median salary for a control systems specialist is $28.78 an hour, for which approximately 30 jobs are available in the region, according to MCC’s analysis of the labor market. The median salary for an associate is $25 an hour with approximately 271 vacant positions in the area.
Classes will be held Monday through Thursday on the fifth and sixth floors of the Finger Lakes Workforce Development Center, located on MCC’s Downtown Campus, 321 State St. To register or for more information, go to the FWD Center’s website.
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About the FWD Center
The Finger Lakes Workforce Development Center at Monroe Community College supports short-term and accelerated training programs that meet the evolving workforce demands of the region and place individuals in high-demand jobs within the local economy. These fast-track, industry-driven education and training programs focus on emergent smart technologies and Industry 4.0 skill sets, including mechatronics, automation and robotics, augmented and virtual reality, industrial internet of things, and more. The Center partners with regional employers to advance the education of existing and prospective employees, and is supported by funding from the State University of New York and New York state. For more information, visit the FWD Center’s website.