Le Industry 4.0 technologies are profoundly transforming the world of work. Collaborative robotics, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), big data and process automation are just some of the innovations that are revolutionising factories, warehouses, production systems and organisational models. In this ever-changing scenario, what skills are really required to work in Industry 4.0?

L'Industry 4.0 is not just a technological evolution, but a new way of conceiving work and the relationship between man and machine. Businesses today are looking for professionals capable not only of using digital tools, but also of interpreting, improving and integrating them into business processes. This requires specific professional training capable of combining technical skills e soft skills.

The ITS Move Academy course in Industry 4.0, for example, 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 (Industry 4.0).

With more than 900 hours of in-company placements, students can apply in the field the skills they have acquired in lectures given by industry professionals from well-established companies. With a training pathway attentive to the demands of the labour market and the needs of companiesITS students manage to find jobs very quickly with a percentage of use one year after graduation which, according to the latest estimates, is around87%.

A new manufacturing paradigm in Industry 4.0

Talking about Industry 4.0 technologies means touching many different areas, but some technical skills are emerging as fundamental in all productive sectors:

  1. Automation and process controlAnyone working in digital manufacturing must be familiar with the main industrial automation systems: PLC, intelligent sensors, SCADA systems. The aim is to optimise processes, reduce errors and ensure business continuity;
  2. Robotics and Mechatronics: the integration of mechanics, electronics and information technology has given rise to new figures such as the mechatronics technicianscapable of managing automated plants and collaborative robots. Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of these technologies is now essential;
  3. Data analysis and machine learningIndustry 4.0 generates enormous amounts of data. Knowing how to read, interpret and use them to make strategic decisions is a key competence. Data analysis, business intelligence and predictive algorithms have entered the vocabulary of companies that innovate;
  4. Industrial cybersecurityThe more technologies become connected, the greater the risk of cyber attacks. Skills related to data security and critical infrastructure protection are becoming central, especially in areas such as logistics and energy;
  5. Digital modelling and designtools such as the 3D CAD, the augmented reality and the digital twin are transforming the way products and plants are designed. Being familiar with these tools makes it possible to reduce time and costs, and to experiment with solutions before they even physically exist.

In addition to technical skills, Industry 4.0 requires a new mindset and certain soft skills are becoming decisive for professional integration and growth:

  • Problem solving skillsBeing able to analyse complex situations and find quick and effective solutions;
  • Flexibility and adaptabilityprocesses change quickly, those working in these contexts have to be able to reinvent themselves;
  • Working in multidisciplinary teamscompanies demand figures capable of collaborating with different professionals, combining technical and management skills;
  • Critical thinking and initiativeIn Industry 4.0, those who make the difference are those who can propose, improve, anticipate.

To acquire these skills, you need a specific and updated training coursecapable of combining theory and practice. Investing in one's training today means preparing for jobs that do not yet existbut will emerge precisely through the evolution of Industry 4.0 technologies.

Author of the article

ITS MOVE - Editor