Perception of Industry 4.0 Competency Challenges and Workplace TEL in the Estonian Manufacturing Industry

Abstract

Industry 4.0 is triggering substantial changes in the core competency profiles of manufacturing professions which may lead the industries to recruitment challenges and talent shortage. While policy makers are emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning and digital learning tools, TEL in the workplace is an under-researched area currently not aligned with the needs of the industry, especially SMEs. The study suggests that the competency-issues and perceptions regarding TEL in industry differ from the current assumptions of academia. The article aims to contribute to closing the gap between industry requirements and what research currently delivers by outlining the current needs and challenges of the Estonian manufacturing industry regarding competencies and TEL solutions.