When we consider the sophisticated machinery that’s used in the manufacturing sector, several things come to mind. The first, is that the machinery needs to be able to perform tasks consistently, efficiently, and above all, safely. While all three of these things must be achieved before the equipment can be sold, none of them can be done without two subjects: mathematics and physics.

Industrial automation control systems have surged in use with the Fourth Industrial Revolution, or Industry 4.0, as manufacturers begin integrating advanced automation technologies to improve equipment and labour efficiencies. One of the current challenges the industrial automation industry faces is a shortage of skilled and experienced automation technicians to fill in-demand positions.

The COVID-19 pandemic is creating new challenges for the manufacturing industry. Research by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), estimates that the COVID-19 outbreak could cause global Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to shrink by 5%-15%, due to the downfall in the manufacturing sector.

In a 2018 study by Deloitte and the Manufacturing Institute it was predicted that by 2028 there would be in excess of two million unfilled positions in manufacturing—a deficit created by what is being called the “Manufacturing Skills Gap.”  The changing landscape of the manufacturing industry, paired with an outdated reputation and quickly developing technology,