Engineers play a crucial role in the digital transformation of the industry. In this new era, they are responsible for developing innovative solutions that ensure resilience and sustainability while meeting the needs of stakeholders.
What is Industry 4.0?
Industry 4.0, also known as the fourth industrial revolution, refers to the current trend of automation and data exchange in manufacturing technologies. It is characterized by the use of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, big data and Internet of Things. The objective is to establish production systems that are highly flexible and responsive, capable of autonomously fine-tuning and adjusting themselves to suit dynamic circumstances.
Several Industry 4.0 skills engineers should possess:
- Complex problem solving
- Critical Thinking
- Creativity
- People Management
- Coordinating with others
- Emotional Intelligence
- Judgement and decision making
- Service Orientation
- Negotiation
- Cognitive Flexibility
Challenges and opportunities of Industry 4.0
There are many challenges and opportunities facing engineers in the age of Industry 4.0. They must be able to work with cutting-edge technologies such as IoT, AI, Big Data, Cybersecurity and Robotics. They work to solve problems and create new things. As a result, they help businesses and society grow.
Industry 4.0 presents fresh prospects for engineering experts. Engineers will play pivotal roles in conceiving, crafting, and integrating innovative technologies. Moreover, their expertise will be essential in overseeing and maintaining these technologies.
In the era of Industry 4.0, engineers need to be even more agile and adaptable. As the world is becoming more digitized and automated. In order to maintain a competitive edge, engineers must engage with emerging technologies, adopt innovative work approaches, cultivate creative thinking, solve complex problems, and collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
They also need to be lifelong learners, upskilling to keep up with the latest trends in the industry. The education system must also evolve to better equip engineers with the skills they need for the future workplace. ASEAN economies can benefit from collaboration among engineering professionals, pooling resources and sharing best practices to create new opportunities and jobs.
The ASEAN Digital Master (ADM) Plan 2025 has identified several priority areas for ASEAN’s digital transformation. These include digital infrastructure, trade economy, e-government, and cybersecurity.
Against this backdrop, engineers and professionals play a crucial role and bright careers in all industries, both private and governmental programs.
Highlights on Seminar
On 8 June 2023, Colin Koh, Senior Business Development Manager, Industry 4.0 Consultant, eloquently addressed the multifaceted challenges that confront us in this era of industry 4.0 transformation. He highlighted the potential for engineers to harness the advancements of Industry 4.0 technologies to guarantee the contemporary relevance of their designs. This discussion emphasized the strategic use of cutting-edge technological innovations in engineering practices to ensure that the products or systems created remain current and enable users to achieve heightened levels of efficiency and effectiveness. He delved into the intricate dynamics of digitalization, the implications for traditional industries, and the strategies needed to navigate this transformative landscape.
All in all, Colin summarized his talk by stating how Industry 4.0 presents an exciting era for engineers with vast opportunities to impact the world. However, it brings challenges demanding the continual acquisition of new skills, adaptability, and a commitment to ongoing learning. Engineers play a crucial role requiring agility and global collaboration while mastering evolving technologies. Engineers need to continue to face the primary challenge of meeting user demands within specified budgets and schedules.
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