Learn how to train for a well-paying career, right here in Atlantic Canada!
Last year we sat down with some experts in the education field to talk about advanced manufacturing and the training options available for students.
We spoke with Derek Reilly – Associate Professor, Graphics and Experiential Media Lab with the Faculty of Computer Science at Dalhousie University, Jodi Stringer-Webb – Dean, School of Engineering Technologies at the New Brunswick Community College, Darrell Leudey – Faculty, School of Technology and Environment at the Nova Scotia Community College, and Kent Sheen – Program Manager for Industrial Technology and Trades Programs at Holland College.
So, what is advanced manufacturing?
Advanced Manufacturing and Industry 4.0 is an approach to manufacturing that uses smart tools and technologies to boost productivity and efficiency. This improves competitiveness by integrating systems and automating tasks in our manufacturing facilities. Advanced manufacturing is building an increasingly skilled and valuable workforce of Atlantic Canadians.
How can students tap into this industry? What do you need to know?
NBCC and NSCC offer many programs within engineering and information technology that are direct pathways to the advanced manufacturing sector. Within engineering students should look at Mechanical Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, and Electronics Engineering Technology.
And if you are not sure where to start, NBCC offers Career Coach which is a service that anyone can access. You don't have to be a student or a prospective student at NBCC, you might even be in the workforce but looking for something new. This coach helps you identity what types of programs would suit your aptitude and interests.
At Holland College there are several programs that are focused on the manufacturing industry including Precision Machinist, Welding Metal Fabrication, and the Industrial Electrical Program which teaches students how to connect electrical systems in a facility.
It is crucial for Atlantic Canadian manufacturing businesses to modernize their operations but a critical requirement for future success is ensuring the pipeline of workers is in place to fill these new and highly skilled manufacturing roles.
Students, take our quiz to see if you are future-fit for a career in advanced manufacturing and visit www.forgeaheadatlantic.com to listen to the full podcast and learn more about the industry and explore the schools and fields of study available right here in Atlantic Canada.
