Developing the industry 4.0 workforce

Abstract

This paper surveys the workforce development efforts for the fourth industrial revolution, known also as Industry 4.0. The paper sketches out the needs of the manufacturing industries based on the applications of Internet of things (IoT), cyber-physical systems concepts, and digital manufacturing, supported by multiple case studies. Individual courses specifically targeting Industry 4.0 have been gradually developed, however only a limited number of standalone programs are currently available since the area is very focused. Programmatic development efforts varying a wide range of educational and training backgrounds and levels are covered in this paper, including the MIT's Management Executive Education, practically oriented technical or engineering-based MS, BS, and AS degrees within the field in addition to the apprenticeship-based training programs including a one from the author's institution, and certification programs from industrial entities like Cisco. Each type and level program's contributions and their matches to the workforce needs are emphasized in this paper, along with the definitions of exact needs of the manufacturing industries. The paper is concluded with data on labor statistics, and programmatic and course-based development proposals to help fill current and future voids in workforce development. Minor- and concentration-based program designs are highlighted for complementing existing ABET accredited programs in electrical and computer engineering, manufacturing engineering, and engineering technology.