The growing use of robots in manufacturing cuts the number of human employees a company requires. But at the same time, running robots is not just a plug-and-play experience.
In fact, local companies engaged in advanced manufacturing have realized they must step in and bridge the gap between just operating a robot and controlling it.
As a result, they have created their own apprenticeship programs and training protocols that go beyond what a robot manufacturer might provide.
At the same time, the state has recognized its role in helping train the workforce for jobs likely to offer significant opportunities in the future. A survey last year conducted by Polaris MEP revealed that among medium-sized and large manufacturers, “talent” was the No. 1 concern.
There is no question that the state is working to match public training resources with private employment needs. But companies are recognizing that they cannot wait to add to their workforces and must take responsibility for filling their worker needs. And that is not a bad realization.