From March issue, NZ Manufacturer  www.nzmanufacturer.co.nz

-David O’Connor, Commercial Manager, The Learning Wave

In the rapidly evolving landscape of global industry, the New Zealand manufacturing sector finds itself at a crucial juncture. As technological advancements redefine traditional paradigms, embracing digital transformation – and upskilling the digital capability of the workforce – becomes not merely a choice but an essential strategy for survival and growth.

There has been much written about the significant need for our New Zealand businesses to prioritise investment in digital technologies. This investment isn’t just about staying afloat; it’s about thriving in an increasingly competitive landscape, and we totally agree that this ongoing investment is vital.

Yet, while investing in cutting-edge hardware and software is crucial, it’s only part of the equation. At the core of this transformation lies the workforce – their ability to effectively utilise digital tools will define the sector’s competitiveness and resilience moving forward.

Currently, the New Zealand manufacturing sector is grappling with a significant skills gap in digital capabilities. Our clients continue to affirm this and as more technology is introduced to their business, they are quickly identifying a broader range of workers who lack the digital mindset and digital skills required to operate advanced machinery, analyse data, or collaborate in digital environments.

What is even more surprising is that according to KPMG’s 2023 CEO Outlook report, this gap impedes digital transformation for 78% of Kiwi CEOs, yet less than half are addressing it.

We are seeing a growing interest from manufacturers for training programmes that focus on digital upskilling, and a focus on planning for skills training of their workforce alongside their technology investments.

While many of our clients have already identified key work groups that need training, we are hearing from the sector that many are still unsure of where to start, how best to understand their current digital capability, and what training packages are available.

Having worked in the digital upskilling space over the past 7 years with a broad range of manufacturing businesses we know that effective digital skills training isn’t just about learning to use a specific piece of software or a new system; it’s about cultivating a digital mindset. This involves being open to discovery, embracing technology’s potential, and fostering a culture of learning and adaptation.

Learning practical skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving supports employees in navigating the complexities of the digital landscape. Contextual skills, focused on workplace systems and devices, ensure adaptability in evolving workplaces.

Not only is the training having a direct impact on digital confidence and digital capability but also enables businesses to increase staff engagement and conversations around ongoing technology transformation and benefits to staff.

Feedback from one of our clients who embarked on a digital skills training programme in 2021 shows the real impact prioritising training and the investment in your people. “due to their increased digital skills we have been able to have conversations with them about the systems change coming – these conversations would not have been possible 6 months ago”

Tailored Digital Skills training solutions, such as those developed in collaboration with Make NZ, and LMAC Consulting, and have the support of Hanga-Aro-Rau, and Te Pukenga Competenz are available to the sector and have been developed to enhance digital skills at all levels of a business and empower the workforce to embrace Industry 4.0 solutions confidently.

As the New Zealand manufacturing sector embarks on its digital transformation journey, prioritizing workforce training is paramount. By equipping employees with the necessary digital skills and fostering a culture of innovation, companies can drive productivity, innovation, and competitiveness.

The time to act is now – the future of manufacturing in New Zealand depends on it.

*David is Commercial Manager at The Learning Wave. The Learning Wave has been helping people perform better in the manufacturing sector for the past 2 decades, and has a broad range of training packages across Leadership Development, Leadership Qualifications, Workplace Literacy, Safety Capability and Digital Capability.