The mechanical engineering industry is one of the most dynamic and evolving sectors in Italy. Working in the workshop as a manager is an interesting and challenging opportunity for those who wish to take on a leadership role in a technical and productive environment. The skills required go beyond the strictly technical and include a combination of management skills, operational knowledge e soft skills.
For those who want to working in the workshop as a manager, the training is indispensable and continuous. Technologies in the mechanical engineering sector evolve rapidly, and staying up-to-date with new developments is essential to maintain competitiveness. The ITS AcademyIn this context, they offer specialisation courses that combine theoretical learning with practical work placements in companies in the sector, ensuring up-to-date training.
The ITS course of the ITS Move Academy in Technician Automotive Service, for example, provides comprehensive training to work in the workshop on vehicle maintenance and repair, integrating advanced technical skills with a focus on customer reception and after-sales services. Through lectures and internships in leading companies in the sector, students will acquire in-depth knowledge of mechanical, electrical and electronic systems, using advanced diagnostic tools (ADAS). The course therefore trains multifaceted professionals, ready to meet the needs of the automotive industry with advanced technical and interpersonal skills.
The characteristics needed to work in the workshop as a manager
Firstly, to work in the workshop as a manager, it is essential to have a solid foundation in specialist technical knowledge. This includes a thorough understanding of the machinery, tools and processes used in mechanical production. Running a workshop requires skills in the field of:
- Mechanical technologyKnowing how to work with numerical control (CNC) machines, milling machines, lathes and precision equipment;
- Maintenance and Repairbe able to identify technical problems, resolve faults and ensure the proper functioning of installations;
- Production processesKnowing the different material processing steps and understanding how to optimise production to reduce costs and processing time.
These technical skills can be acquired through specific studies, such as post-diploma technical courses or vocational diplomas, and perfected through experience in the field. In this context, ITS Academies play a key role, offering targeted training courses combining theory and practice in the mechanical and industrial fields.
In addition to technical skills, the workshop manager must possess strong management skills e leadership. This means being able to coordinate production activities, monitor deadlines and manage personnel. Among the main responsibilities of a workshop manager are:
- Team management: organising staff work, assigning tasks, monitoring performance and resolving internal conflicts. Good communication and problem solving skills are essential to maintain a productive working environment;
- Production planning: the workshop manager must be able to plan and monitor the production process to ensure adherence to delivery times and the quality of the final products;
- Resource ManagementEfficiency in the workshop also depends on the correct management of material and technical resources. The manager must be able to optimise the use of equipment, minimising waste and inefficiency.
Another fundamental aspect of working in the workshop as a manager is the knowledge of relevant regulations to safety at work. In an environment like the workshop, where the use of heavy machinery and technical equipment is a daily occurrence, safety is a priority. The person in charge must be well informed about current regulations and ensure that all employees comply with them.
In addition, the soft skills are just as important as technical skills for a workshop manager. Knowing how to communicate clearly and effectively, manage conflicts and solve problems in a timely manner is crucial to the outcome of the work.
Working on the shop floor as a manager, therefore, requires a combination of technical skills, management skills and soft skills. It is a role of great responsibility, offering the opportunity to coordinate a team, optimise production and contribute to the success of the company.

Author of the article
ITS MOVE - Editor