LEARNING CENTER FOR ELECTROPNEUMATICS

Advanced technologies and new findings in the field of automation require employees to constantly acquire and update their knowledge and competencies. Knowledge of the electric pneumatics, which combines electrical and pneumatic systems for process automation and control, is  essential for maintaining automated lines, identifying and eliminating defects. There are fewer and fewer simple, manual works, where it is enough for workers to have only good manual skills and more and more tasks that require more demanding technical skills.

Due to the rapid progress of technologies, it is difficult to find in the employment market people who are already qualified for specific state-of-the-art systems. Errors in the maintenance of automated systems can lead to production interruptions and high costs, which increases the pressure on employees.

Technology is constantly evolving, so employees need to regularly update their knowledge. The high demand for these personnel increases competition between companies fighting for the best professionals. Therefore, it takes a lot of care to keep good personnel in our company. In addition, we note that even among young people there is a lack of interest or awareness about these career opportunities and the opportunities offered by professions of technical direction.

A few months ago, the R&D Division proposed to establish a learning centre where our employees (new and existing employees) would be trained for independent work on automated lines, especially on the C25, EFI, NV lines ... This method of training was already carried out years ago with two groups of employees that we envisaged for maintenance workers or operators of similar lines. This time, the goal is to make this a learning center that will constantly take care of the proper training of employees. 

The employees of the team, which consists of the management of the Research and Development Division, the management of the technical field, the human resources department and some experts, gathered a few months ago and agreed on the activities:

1/ We have set a goal that we want to achieve with this – our goal is to equip employees with specific skills necessary for independent, high-quality and efficient work on automated lines. The transfer of knowledge will be carried out continuously.

2/ Curriculum and working methods – the learning content will consist of professional topics that participants will gain from the available e-content, after which knowledge will be deepened through practical on-the-job training. The topic includes the basics of automation, tyres and electric tires, understanding different machines and equipment, diagnostics and troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance.

3/ We determined the location of the training – at the beginning, theoretical knowledge will be acquired in one side of the existing rooms (conference room, team rooms...) and practically at work. Since learning on the demonstration board will also be part of the training, it will be placed in a suitable space that enables such training.

4/ We purchased the appropriate equipment – the necessary licenses for the use of the e-classroom, a demonstration double-sided whiteboard for practical training and a set of components for the base tire and electric pneumatics.

5/ Without good experts/mentors, there is no effective transfer of knowledge – a team of internal experts is formed, consisting of experts in the field of automation and technology. These internal educators are regularly trained and kept up to date with modern trends and have the necessary pedagogical and andragogical knowledge.

6/ Who will be the participants in the training – our existing and new employees who need to upgrade their knowledge or their knowledge is insufficient. Groups will be formed gradually according to the necessity of acquiring knowledge.

We are aware that special attention will have to be paid to the motivation of employees, because lack of motivation reduces their willingness to learn and improve. It is important to create an environment conducive to growth and development, both personal and professional development. This includes education and training opportunities, providing constructive feedback, recognising achievements and advancing and establishing a culture that focuses on the value of continuous learning.