Addressing the Skills Gap in Automation: Insights from Paul Godinès
Discover how to bridge the skills gap in automation and fluid power industries. Learn from Paul Godinès about effective training and the importance of tenacity in engineering roles.
In the rapidly evolving fields of automation and fluid power, many professionals face a critical question: How can we effectively train the next generation of engineers? In this post, we delve into insights shared by Paul Godinès, a seasoned automation engineer, who sheds light on the challenges of training and the importance of tenacity in overcoming them. We’ll discuss his journey from the Marines to engineering, the broken training systems, and actionable strategies for preparing future talent.
A Journey from the Marines to Automation
Paul Godinès shares how his transition from the Marines to the automation industry was driven by necessity. After struggling to find opportunities, he entered the factory environment through his wife’s family connections. His initial experience in management led him to discover the world of electrical engineering through hands-on experience building control panels.
This journey highlights the unpredictable career paths many in the industry face. Paul emphasizes the importance of gaining practical skills over formal education, stating, “You just got to get experience. You got to learn it. But it isn’t easy.”
The Flaws in Current Training Approaches
One of the most pressing issues Paul identifies is the lack of a clear training path for new engineers. Reflecting on his early experiences, he notes, “The path to this industry is unclear.” Many recent graduates possess theoretical knowledge but lack practical skills, which leads to frustration for both employers and employees.
Paul explains that traditional training often fails to deliver what is needed on the job. “Rockwell Automation has very expensive training. It’s good, but it’s hard to find employers willing to invest in new hires.”
The Cost of Inadequate Training
The consequences of inadequate training are significant. Companies face production delays, increased costs, and a workforce that is not adequately prepared for the complexities of modern automation. Paul argues for the need to update training methodologies to better align with industry demands.
The Importance of Tenacity in Engineering Roles
According to Paul, the most successful engineers possess tenacity—the ability to endure challenges and maintain problem-solving focus under pressure. He describes these individuals as “heroes” who keep plants running, emphasizing their crucial role in ensuring operational efficiency.
What Happens When They Leave?
Paul warns that if companies do not address the skills gap, they risk losing these essential team members without proper backfilling. He notes that technology in automation is not becoming simpler; rather, it is advancing rapidly, making the need for skilled workers even more critical.
Moving Towards Scenario-Based Training
To better prepare future engineers, Paul advocates for scenario-based training that integrates real-world applications with theoretical knowledge. He believes that traditional training methods often neglect the practical skills that technicians need most.
Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice
In scenario-based training, learners engage with the actual hardware before jumping into software, ensuring they understand the entire system’s workings. Paul explains, “We do not solve problems by initially dealing with the problem by opening a laptop. We go to the device and work backwards to the laptop.”
Conclusion
In summary, the automation and fluid power industries face a significant skills gap that can be bridged through innovative training approaches and a focus on developing tenacity in engineers. As Paul Godinès emphasizes, it is crucial to adapt training methods to meet the evolving demands of the industry. By doing so, we can ensure that future engineers are not only knowledgeable but also equipped to tackle real-world challenges effectively.