Bosch has joined forces with the Stuttgart Region Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) in Germany and other science and industry partners to develop a certification course called Fachkraft für Industrie 4.0 (IHK), or Industry 4.0 specialist, and launch a pilot program.
The first nationwide IHK training course to cater to skilled workers, it brings technicians up to speed with the requirements of connected manufacturing.
Technologies that enable Industry 4.0 applications figure prominently on the syllabus, as do agile working methods.
“You have to understand the connected world before you can shape it,” said Christoph Kübel, the director of industrial relations at Bosch.
“We’re preparing our associates for tomorrow’s working world, and thus setting the stage for successful Industry 4.0 adoption. The new Industry 4.0 specialist qualification will help hone Germany’s competitive edge,”
The first 12 participants from the Bosch plant at Stuttgart-Feuerbach have completed this course of vocational training. Starting in 2019, various IHK member bodies will offer courses nationwide that are open to all companies.
This new certification course caters to skilled workers with experience in manufacturing and logistics. There are no formal entry requirements. The course consists of five modules totaling 104 hours. Theory and practice are given equal emphasis.
Participants learn about connected business models in manufacturing: What technologies are out there? How is data transferred? How do logistics and supply chains work in a digital world?
“Technical solutions are just one side of the coin. When it comes to Industry 4.0, what really makes the difference is the workforce,” said Dr. Stefan Aßmann, who heads Bosch Connected Industry, the business unit tasked with delivering the company’s Industry 4.0-related software and services.
“Their ability to spot problems as they arise and find new, creative solutions will take centre stage in tomorrow’s factories.”
Bosch associates can volunteer for the training program and take advantage of various types of support offered by the company, such as time off and tuition assistance. The company also footed the bill for the pilot program. Much of this training takes place during working hours, and around 20 percent off the job.
