Industrial automation is profoundly transforming the world of work, converting former factories into smart factory. With the advent of smart technologies, artificial intelligence and digital integration in production processes, companies are becoming increasingly connected, responsive and efficient. In this scenario, the role of ITS - Istituti Tecnici Superiori - proves to be strategic in training professional figures capable of facing and leading change.

In the ninth annual report of the State of Smart Manufacturing compiled by Rockwell Automation to seek an understanding of how global manufacturers exploit emerging technologies to maximise workforce potential, reduce risk, increase quality and ensure sustainable growth, 95% of companies responded that they currently use or consider using smart manufacturing technology.

The era of smart factory is no longer a future hypothesis, but a concrete reality in many areas. The term smart factory, or smart factory, denotes an automated and digitally interconnected manufacturing environment in which machines, people and information systems communicate in real time. This approach is based on the combined use of sensors, big data, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT) and collaborative robotics.

The main characteristics of a smart factory include connectivity, i.e. the interconnection between machinery, sensors and information systems, automation, flexibility and so-called data-driven decision making, advanced data analysis. The goal is to make processes more flexible, precise and adaptable, reducing waste and improving the final quality of products.

The role of ITS in industrial automation

With the digitisation of industryprofessional skills are also changing. Today, companies are looking for technical profiles capable of operating and programming automated systems, managing digital control and supervision systems, analysing production data to improve efficiency, intervening promptly on any anomalies and, above all, collaborating in cross-functional teams, even in international contexts.

ITS offers two-year post-diploma courses job-orienteddeveloped in close cooperation with local companies and universities. In the courses dedicated toindustrial automationtraining programmes are up-to-date with respect to emerging technologies and include the use of real tools in workshops, with a learning-by-doing approach.

The route in Industry 4.0 of the ITS Move AcademyFor example, it provides the necessary skills to manage distribution logistics functions within manufacturing or trading companies as well as logistics service companies or intermodal transport companies with a view to enhancing the supply chain, i.e. the integration of the supply, production, distribution and sales chains of products also through the implementation of enabling technologies in smart factories.

More than 50% of the teaching hours are taught by lecturers from the world of production, and approximately 30-40% of the course is carried out directly in companies through internships. This allows students to gain a concrete and up-to-date insight into industrial processes, often within a real smart factory.

How work is changing with automation

Automation does not eliminate human labour, but it does transforms. The most repetitive or potentially exhausting tasks are entrusted to robots or intelligent software, while people are asked to play a more strategic, decision-making and technical role. There is a shift from 'doing' to 'controlling, analysing, optimising' in order to make the production process more efficient and sustainable.

This transformation implies the emergence of new professions and adaptation of existing ones. Among the most in-demand profiles are:

  • Industrial automation technician;
  • Robotic plant operator;
  • Industrial data analyst;
  • Maintainer 4.0;
  • Mechatronic systems designer.

Industrial automation and smart factories are redefining the very concept of work. In order to face this transformation with competence and awareness, it is essential to focus on training courses capable of combining theory, practice and innovation. ITSs, in this context, represent a point of reference for those who want to prepare themselves for the challenges of the future and build a solid technical career in step with the evolution of industry.

Author of the article

ITS MOVE - Editor