2 New Unique Training Programmes Giving Skills in Automation, Robotics, and Digital Manufacturing

Cobotics Skillnet has announced the launch of two new training programmes in association with Atlantic Technological University (ATU) and Skillnet Ireland which will address the skills need of Irish manufacturing companies in transitioning from manual to automated processes. The launch took place at Trane Technologies manufacturing facility in Galway.

Upskilling and training

The first programme, a Higher Diploma in Engineering in Automation and Digital Manufacturing, is targeted to employees who want to upskill or cross-skill into the areas of automation, robotics, and digital manufacturing. It is a one-year programme which will provide students with the knowledge of robotic automation, advanced manufacturing, and vision systems.

The second programme, a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Automation, Robotics and Digital Manufacturing is aimed at employees that want to continue their progression in this area of advanced manufacturing. Both programmes will commence in September.

A unique programme in this country

Speaking at the launch event at Trane Technologies manufacturing facility in Galway, Dermot O’Neill, Cobotics Skillnet said: “The Higher Diploma is a unique programme in this country as it will give individuals the opportunity to transition into the advanced manufacturing and robotics sector. This addresses the immediate need to develop in-house talent as indicated by 16 Irish based manufacturing companies who were involved in the design and development of the programmes, and so it is fitting that our launch in Galway coincides with the West Regional Skills Forum.”

Cobotics Skillnet is a Skillnet Business Network for companies of all sizes in the robotic and automation technology sector. Network companies work collaboratively to share best practice and to respond effectively to the specific skills needs of the sector. The network addresses both technical and non-technical skills needs of members. The objective of this national network is to support the international competitiveness of Irish businesses and employment growth in Ireland by increasing the uptake of robotic and automation technologies.

Promoted by Irish Centre for Excellence in Robotic Technology (ICERT), membership of Cobotics Skillnet is open to private enterprises in the robotic and automation technology sector based in the Republic of Ireland.

Enabling Irish talent to remain on the global stage

Tracey Donnery, Director of Policy and Communications, Skillnet Ireland added: “Skillnet Ireland’s industry-led model is helping the advanced manufacturing sector to develop the talent needed to accelerate digitalisation. Talent is a key driver for foreign direct investment and innovation, and these new accredited programmes in robotics from Cobotics Skillnet will help companies deploy their automation strategies, enabling them to remain competitive on the global stage.”

Skillnet Ireland is a business support agency of the Government of Ireland, responsible for advancing the competitiveness, productivity, and innovation of Irish businesses through enterprise-led talent development.

Skillnet Ireland partners with 57 industry bodies, supporting over 22,500 businesses and 86,500 trainees annually, through its 72 Skillnet Business Networks across most sectors and all regions in Ireland. Skillnet Ireland is funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Further Education.

Dr Carine Gachon, Head of Transcend, ATU said: “The partnership approach taken in developing these programmes, working with Cobotics Skillnet, is essential for delivering programmes that match the needs of modern engineering, advanced manufacturing, and robotics. We are delighted to offer these programmes and are looking forward to the first intake of students for these programmes in September.”

The new programmes demonstrate the importance of collaboration in driving talent development. Resulting from the partnership between Cobotics Skillnet companies in the advanced manufacturing sector, ASU and the Regional Skills Forum West, these programmes in automation, robotics and digital manufacturing will enable companies to transform and future-proof their businesses and help workers to further develop their career in robotics.

For more information on the programmes go to www.atu.ie/courses.