Schneider Electric’s study, conducted by Omdia, shows that nearly half of industrial firms see digitalization as a key driver for creating new operational technology jobs within three years. The survey included 407 companies across various regions and highlighted the widespread skills gap in the industry, with talent acquisition being a significant issue for 52% of participants, according to PRNewswire.
Digitalization is seen as a solution to this skills shortage, with 70% of respondents believing it will address talent gaps by enhancing job roles and improving productivity. The need for sustainability and advanced technologies like AI and digital twins is expected to expand current job functions, as indicated by 45% and 47% of those surveyed, respectively.
Ali Haj Fraj, Senior Vice President, Digital Factory, Industrial Automation at Schneider Electric emphasizes that digitalization can address workforce challenges and contribute to a sustainable future by optimizing job roles and reducing administrative burdens.
The survey also reveals optimism about overcoming workforce challenges, with changes in OT roles anticipated by 60% of respondents. A majority agree that digitalization will significantly alter work nature in the next three years, with quality-control positions likely to be most affected.
Industrial companies expect a demand for new skills such as robotics programming and data analytics, though many currently lack these capabilities. Investment in these areas is prioritized, but partnerships within the industrial ecosystem are recommended to bridge the skills gap and prepare the workforce for the future.
Alex West, Senior Principal Analyst, Industrial IoT and Sustainability at Omdia warns that failing to invest in digitalization could hinder innovation and exacerbate talent shortages in the long term.
