Executive Director, Education, FANUC America
As someone deeply passionate about the field of robotics and automation,
data from the 2024
Deloitte and The Manufacturing Institute Talent Study
suggesting that half of the 3.8 million manufacturing jobs over the next
decade could remain vacant keeps me awake at night.
It’s also the driving force behind so much of the effort that FANUC puts
toward furthering robotics and CNC education, which can lead a student to a
well-paying, skilled and sought-after role in as little as a year.
This fall, FANUC surveyed students at the Smartforce Student Summit during
the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) to better understand
the “aha!” moment that leads to a career in robotics, and the pitfalls that
can sometimes prevent an interested student from pursuing further education.
The resulting study reveals key insights into the growing interest and
challenges faced by students pursuing careers in this dynamic sector. It
underscores the importance of early exposure, financial support, and the
perception of automation careers among students.
High School Influence: Early Discovery of Automation Careers
Having spent over more than two decades at FANUC, I can attest to the impact
of discovering automation early on. According to FANUC’s study, 40 percent
of students discover their interest in automation careers while still in
high school. This early exposure is crucial in shaping their career paths
and fostering a long-term interest in the field. FANUC’s certified
education
efforts, which introduce students to robotics and provide
industry-relevant
training across more than 1,600 partner high schools, colleges and
universities, play a pivotal role in this. The hands-on experience not only
provides a basic understanding of robot operations and programming but also
equips students with real-world solutions using the same products found in
industrial workplaces. At completion of the program, students gain
industry-recognized occupational certification.
Financial Support: Scholarships and Family Aid
The financial burden of education is a significant barrier for many aspiring
automation professionals. FANUC’s study reveals that the majority of
students—58 percent—rely on scholarships to fund their education. Notably,
12 percent of students indicated that their ability to continue their
education hinges on the availability of scholarships. Additionally, 38
percent of students juggle jobs to afford their education, while 22 percent
rely on family support for funding.
The FANUC
Automation Endowed Scholarship Fund, launched in collaboration
with the SME Education Foundation, is a game-changing scholarship that
directly addresses these issues. As the largest automation scholarship
in
SME Education Foundation history, this initiative will foster the next
generation of skilled professionals in advanced manufacturing and
automation
through a variety of education programs. Interested applicants can apply
from November 1 – February 1.
Perception of Automation Careers: Innovative and Exciting
One of the most heartening findings from FANUC’s study is the perception of
automation careers as innovative and exciting. Students selected these words
as the most accurate descriptors of a career in automation, reflecting the
dynamic and forward-thinking nature of the field. This positive perception
is crucial for attracting and retaining talent in the industry. Given that
manufacturers seek to fill 4 million high-skill, high-tech, and high-paying
jobs over the next decade, this is indeed good news.
Programs like National
Manufacturing Day, which bring high school students
directly into manufacturing facilities to see, touch, and learn about
real-world advanced technologies, are instrumental in fueling early exposure
to automation. Opening the doors to students across FANUC America’s 25
locations, including the Rochester Hills, MI-based headquarters, is a
priority for the company. This year, dozens of students were hosted in honor
of Manufacturing Day, as part of FANUC’s ongoing commitment to provide
community tours. The positive reinforcement from influential adults in
students’ lives also plays a significant role. When asked, 84 percent of
students reported that the adults in their lives responded positively to
their interest in a career in robotics and automation, further encouraging
them to pursue their passion.
Industry and Education Partnership
Together, these three elements—early exposure to automation technologies,
availability of financial support, and a shifting perspective on advanced
manufacturing—are driving necessary change and growth in the sector. FANUC’s
certified education program regularly travels the country, bringing together
partner educational institutions and regional manufacturing businesses to
discuss the importance of industry-relevant training, competency-based
skills development and certifications.
With more than 25 million products installed worldwide, FANUC is the most
common platform in automation. As an industry leader, FANUC understands the
critical role of supporting the students, educators, and employers that will
drive automation and Industry 4.0.
For more information on FANUC America’s initiatives and educational
programs, visit FANUC
America’s website.