Robotic Automation and the Future of Technical and Trade Schools
Overview:
Robotic automation is rapidly changing the landscape of technical and trade schools, shaping the future of these institutions significantly. Critical statistics referenced in this guide include the forecasted growth in global industrial robot sales, the close correlation between the rise in robotic technology and a decreased demand for human labor, and the projected increase in the number of jobs requiring post-secondary non-degree awards.
Rapid Expansion of Robotic Automation:
As advancements in technology continue, robotic automation is becoming increasingly prevalent in manufacturing and similar industries. According to the International Federation of Robotics, global industrial robot sales are expected to increase by 12% annually from 2020 to 2022. This rapid expansion signals a shift in operational methodologies in several sectors, with many businesses currently transitioning from manual labor to automation.
Implications for Technical and Trade Schools:
This move towards automation implies a significant reduction in the demand for human labor for tasks that can be taken over by these mechanical alternatives. McKinsey's report indicates that robots could potentially replace nearly 20% of our current work activities by 2030, thereby impacting millions of jobs globally. Technical and trade schools, which traditionally focus on teaching manual and vocational skills, must therefore adapt to these developments in the job market.
Response from the Educational Sector:
In response to these changing labor market demands, many technical and trade schools are beginning to reassess their curricula. Instead of solely focusing on traditional vocational skills, these institutions are increasingly integrating robotics and automation into their programs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of jobs requiring a post-secondary non-degree award, a category that includes technical and vocational education, will increase by 11% between 2016 and 2026.
Shift in Teaching Practices:
The teaching practices in these technical and trade schools are shifting as well, with more emphasis now on researchers, learners, and educators needing to understand the programming and maintenance of robotic systems. As there is a projected increase in robotic technology, having a workforce competent in managing and operating this advanced machinery is essential. Consequently, there is a growing need for hands-on experience with live equipment and simulations to equip students to operate in the industry.
Key Takeaways:
- Robotic automation is rapidly expanding with an expected increase in global industrial robot sales by 12% annually from 2020 to 2022.
- Rapid automation is reducing the demand for human labor, which will significantly impact the future of technical and trade schools.
- Response from technical and trade schools has been to integrate robotics and automation into curriculums, preparing students for their future careers.
- There is an increasing need for individuals adept at the programming and maintenance of robotic systems, indicating a crucial shift in teaching practices.
3Laws Robotics & How It Supports These Trends:
3Laws Robotics is dedicated to bridge the gap between the increase in robotic automation and the need for skilled professionals in the industry. The company is focused on developing innovative software to enhance safety and reliability for robotic systems, like 3Laws Supervisor, a software built on Control Barrier Functions(CBFs), which is a technology developed at Caltech.
3Laws addresses a significant challenge in the industry - the certification process. By offering robust safety features and evidence of system robustness, the software eases the certification path. Some successful use cases of 3Laws technology span diverse industries, such as warehouse automation, human-robot interaction and navigating dynamic environments.
The company helps navigate robots in unpredictable environments, reduces downtime caused by e-stops or collisions, and operates robots closer to their peak capabilities while maintaining safety. Additionally, it has software that is adaptable to a wide range of platforms, including mobile robots, cars, drones, etc., which is compatible with popular robotics middleware such as ROS and ROS2. In this way, 3Laws positions itself as a next-generation solution, offering a proactive approach to robotic safety.