TOP TRENDS SHAPING THE FUTURE OF MANUFACTURING ENGINEERING

Manufacturing engineering is constantly evolving and will continue to do so over the coming years. But which trends in particular are shaping the future of manufacturing engineering? And what impact will these trends have on the manufacturing engineering workforce?

Which Top Trends Are Shaping the Future of Manufacturing Engineering?

Automation and Robotics

Automation and robotics are leading the way when it comes to manufacturing engineering advancements. Already, many repetitive tasks are completed by robots, and continuous improvements are being made to this technology to further enhance efficiency and productivity while reducing the capacity for human error.

As the industry surges forward, we can expect this area of technology to continue to grow, while the need for manufacturing engineers skilled in automation and robotics will open up a new world of opportunities for these professionals.

Sustainability and Green Manufacturing

Every industry is striving for improved sustainability, but perhaps none more so than the manufacturing industry, particularly when it comes to engineering. Green manufacturing initiatives currently involve using eco-friendly materials, minimising waste and ensuring processes are as energy efficient as possible.

More and more, manufacturing engineers are designing products with their end-of-life in mind to encourage recycling and reusability. These sustainable initiatives – more a necessity than a trend – will change the future of the manufacturing.

Industry 4.0

The manufacturing engineering industry is diving headfirst into utilising the benefits of Industry 4.0, otherwise known as the fourth industrial revolution. This movement pulls together digital and physical processes to create an industry that goes above and beyond when it comes to productivity, efficiency and product quality.

As this trend develops further, skilled manufacturing engineers will have the opportunity to work on projects that benefit from technology advancements and more efficient physical processes in equal parts – an exciting prospect for the future of the industry.

Digital Twins and Simulation

A common theme in the trends shaping the development of the manufacturing engineering industry is this firm focus on enhancing efficiency – an area in which digital twins and simulation are having a huge impact. Digital twin technology involves creating a virtual replica of a physical system, allowing manufacturers to simulate and optimise production before implementation.

Not only does this avoid real-world disruption to production lines and supply chains, but it also saves time and money in the long run – two key indicators that a trend is likely to stick around.

Workforce Transformation and Upskilling

With these established and emerging trends, along with the ever-evolving technological advancements comes the need for workforce transformation and upskilling. Professionals already skilled in this area will be able to broaden their horizons, getting to grips with new processes, initiatives and technologies that will allow them to play their part in shaping the future of manufacturing engineering.

Manufacturing Engineering Recruitment

Here at Mackinnon & Partners, we have our finger on the pulse when it comes to manufacturing engineering trends and are skilled in sourcing, screening and selecting ideal candidates for a range of manufacturing organisations. If you’re looking to recruit in this area, please do not hesitate to get in touch.