Siemens Partners with Educators to Fill Industry Skill Gaps
SOURCE: Amanda Beaton, US Program Manager Siemens Cooperates with Education
I often get asked how Siemens works with schools, and I’m happy to respond that our company engages with high school, community college and university students at all levels.
If you are an educator, teaching skills that will lead to Industry 4.0, such as industrial technologies, advanced manufacturing, or related disciplines in everything from maintenance to engineering, then the “Siemens Cooperates with Education” (SCE) program can benefit your students. SCE offers teaching materials and trainer packages for topics like PLC programming and digitalization know-how.
Why is teaching high-level manufacturing skills important? There are hundreds of thousands of skilled manufacturing jobs currently available and the number of openings continues to grow. In order to fill those positions, we need individuals who have the high-level skills in automation, programming and digitalization to keep the manufacturing industry strong.
Siemens is committed to preparing the next generation of workers to fill these positions. With SCE, Siemens is putting the same technologies used in advanced manufacturing operations worldwide into the hands of high school, community college and university students. Students gain hands-on experience with the hardware and software used by leading global manufacturers. Through SCE, educators have access to significant product discounts and free curriculum so students can learn basic programming skills, Internet of Things concepts and the value of developing a Digital Twin.
Why is it important? By providing access to the same technologies and tools used by the workforce, students gain experience with relevant automation tools. The absolute best part of my job is hearing from students who put their technical skills to work immediately, make valuable contributions early in their work experience and find a rewarding career because of hands-on technical programs.
How does an educator engage with SCE? Educators interested in learning more about industrial automation and the teaching tools available are welcome to attend a free training workshop or a Siemens automation event. Educator workshops feature hands-on training and offer starter kits of hardware and software for qualified educators who participate. At these events, teachers have the opportunity to meet local Siemens Automation consultants and channel partners as well as learn how to download curriculum and get technical support. We also share best practices from schools that have successes in recruiting, grant writing and other areas of interest.
Find out more about events or connect with the SCE program for support at our US home page