‘Recipes’ to help machinists
ProvenCut offers tested speeds and feeds backed by video tutorials and comprehensive machining and tool information.
Topic
Workforce Development & Training
How simulation training bridges the manufacturing skills gap
Bridging the manufacturing skills gap calls for innovative training approaches to equip employees with the new technical skills they need to succeed in the industry. Simulation training is one approach that has the potential to recruit and onboard employees and provide them with the needed skills.
ICATT Apprenticeship Program
Rather than develop an apprenticeship program in-house, some machine tool builders select to train workers with an already established program. One such offering is the Chicago-based Industry Consortium for Advanced Technical Training Apprenticeship Program, which is detailed in the accompanying video.
Apprenticeships can provide effective training
Various apprenticeship programs are available to connect the gap between the skills that parts manufacturers need and the ones job seekers offer.
Math matters
Technology has not removed the need to master calculations.
Machine learning
Multifaceted Missouri program seeks to enlighten students about industrial technology.
Many parents undervalue manufacturing as a career for their children
Many parents undervalue manufacturing as a career for their children. However, when parents were told about the financial benefits of jobs in manufacturing, they said they would encourage their children to explore the field.
E4Life program gives hands-on manufacturing experience to students
Caterpillar Inc.'s E4Life program partners with public schools in Peoria, Illinois, to provide hands-on manufacturing experience to high school students with a focus on innovation. Prior to the implementation of this program, Caterpillar spent time with students and potential participants to find out what barriers stand between them and the workforce.
Skipping school
I admit to some bias against school. From about fifth grade on, our educational system and I were rarely on speaking terms. Think oil and water rather than peas and carrots. Needless to say, I left at my earliest opportunity. Aside from that thing with my daughter pulling the fire alarm, my kids were far better students. So when it came time for them to make the big decisions, I kept my opinion to myself and did what most parents do these days: Encourage them to get their college degrees.
Effective training programs improve employees’ skills, morale
Many companies fail to recognize the benefit of having well-designed, effective training programs, despite a proven track record for improving the skills and morale of employees and increasing the flexibility and bottom line of a company.
Vincennes University, Porter County career center partner for early college program
Vincennes University and the Porter County, Ind., career center are partnering for an early college program. Students seeking careers in precision machining will benefit from a completed addition to the career center and an equipment grant from Vincennes University that provided more than $300,000 in new CNC equipment, manual/conventional equipment, tooling, cabinets, benches and tables.
Capture employee tribal knowledge before it’s too late
By 2025, nearly 25 percent of the U.S. population is expected to be 60 years of age or older. With this demographic preparing to exit the workforce and enter retirement, what can be done to retain people's knowledge and pass it down to the next generation of employees? After all, a good portion of the knowledge that our "employee elders" possess is not written down or stored on computers—it's in their heads. This is especially true in the manufacturing sector.