Attracting Talent: Operator Roles Enhanced by Technology

Can augmenting the role of the operator with cutting-edge technologies attract a new generation to the workforce?

  • ABB Ability™ System 800xA® at the Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London
    ABB Ability™ System 800xA® at the Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London

An aging personnel demographic and increasing competition for new technically skilled workers in process control has resulted in industry-wide talent shortages that are set to worsen without intervention. One way to get ahead of the problem is to start preparing for the workforce of the future today to attract - and retain - the skills that will be needed tomorrow.

Utilizing cutting-edge technologies like AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics can enhance the role of operators, creating a more immersive, digitally enriched, and fulfilling experience. The concept of the 'augmented operator' deliberately moves beyond the traditional focus on maintaining routine operations to embrace the use of innovative digital tools in optimizing workflows, identifying energy efficiency opportunities, and achieving production improvements. This transformation fosters a sense of purpose and ownership, proven to be effective in attracting and retaining both current and upcoming workforce talents.

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