Addressing The Manufacturing Skills Gap From The Perspective of Automation
Automation is helping ASG Group overcome the manufacturing skills gap by up-skilling its workforce
The manufacturing sector grapples with a persistent skills gap. ASG Group, headquartered in Stockport has nine global locations and is adopting a dual approach to overcoming a shortage of engineers globally. In addition to STEM outreach activities and investment in apprentices, the group is also investing in automation.
One of the key proponents of this investment at group level is ASG Arrowsmith in Coventry, a well respected CNC machining operation within the ASG Group, renowned for its engineering of aero engine components and forward-thinking approach to manufacturing. Under the leadership of its Managing Director, Jason Aldridge, the division has embraced automation as a cornerstone of its strategy to navigate the complexities of the modern manufacturing landscape.
Commenting on ASG Arrowsmith's approach, Jason Aldridge emphasises the pivotal role of automation in augmenting productivity and mitigating the impact of the skills gap. "Automation presents a transformative opportunity for us to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and optimise resource utilisation," states the Arrowsmith. "By integrating automation into our operations, we bolster our competitive edge and at the same time, alleviate the strain posed by the shortage of skilled labour globally."
ASG Arrowsmith's adoption of automation is emblematic of a broader trend within the manufacturing sector. Automation technologies, ranging from robotics to AI-driven systems, offer unprecedented potential to revolutionise traditional manufacturing processes, enabling companies to achieve higher output levels with fewer resources. In Coventry, robotics and pallet loaders are helping to bridge this gap, embracing values of industrie 4.0
However, Aldridge recognises that automation is not a means of replacing human labor, he see’s this as an opportunity to up-skill and re-skilling his team. "Contrary to misconceptions, automation is empowering our team to focus on higher-value tasks that require human ingenuity and creativity, rather than replace head-count" explains the MD. "At ASG Arrowsmith, we view automation as a tool for enhancing the capabilities of our workforce, enabling them to thrive in an increasingly digitised and interconnected manufacturing ecosystem, such is the demand of our world class customers which include Rolls-Royce."
Indeed, ASG Group's holistic approach to addressing the manufacturing skills gap underscores the imperative of embracing technological innovation as a means of future-proofing the industry. By leveraging automation alongside strategic workforce development initiatives, ASG Group exemplifies a blueprint for sustainable growth and resilience in the face of evolving market dynamics. As the manufacturing sector continues to evolve, ASG Group remains at the forefront of innovation, championing automation as a catalyst for progress and prosperity and is making similar investments across its other 8 global locations.