How technology is impacting engineering jobs
Engineering has always led the way in adopting new technological innovations. But the pace of change has accelerated rapidly in recent years, leaving many engineers wondering how their jobs will evolve. In this article, we’ll explore some key technologies that are transforming the sector, and what this might mean for jobs.
Automation, automation, automation
Some of the most transformative technologies bring a common change: automation. But this doesn’t mean replacing human workers with machines. Far from it. The latest innovations are enhancing the work of engineers by automating tasks, improving processes, and aiding decision making.
AI, for example, is being used to predict when machines might fail, thus enabling predictive maintenance. It’s being used to streamline the product design process, and even identify product defects in real time. Plus, it’s being used to optimise energy usage. It’s not just about automation, then, but also increased precision, lower costs, and better quality.
Related to AI, the Internet of Things (IoT) is drastically changing the engineering sector. Referring to the ever-growing network of objects and machines embedded with sensors that send data to other devices, the IoT is what allows engineers to monitor machine performance in real time and (with the help of AI algorithms) predict when maintenance is needed. It also allows engineers to monitor and manage energy consumption, and automate building management systems.
And then we have robotics, which is set to change the way tasks are completed. Again, this is linked to AI, since AI is enabling robots to take on a wider range of tasks – making them applicable to a broader range of sectors.
What this means for jobs
Clearly engineering is entering a period of transformation, and many have expressed concern about jobs as more tasks become automated. But just as in other sectors, it’s largely the menial, repetitive tasks that will be automated by AI or robots. We will always need skilled engineers – but in the future, we’ll increasingly need engineers who can work alongside AI tools and robots in order to save time, improve quality, and increase productivity. We’re not talking about becoming full-on software developers here; rather, we’re talking about understanding what these tools can do, their limitations, and how to use them. In other words, an AI or robot probably won’t take your job, but someone who understands AI and robotics might.
Tank Recruitment is a leading engineering recruitment company with a passion for people and technology. Discover the benefits of working with us, whether you’re an engineer looking for your next career move, or an employer looking for your next hire.
