The process industry is rapidly becoming automated. Sensors continuously measure temperature, pressure and flow; control loops adjust processes; and operators monitor plant operations via digital systems. This helps companies to produce more efficiently and reduces their reliance on manual intervention. In a sector where technical staff are in short supply, this seems a logical development.

Yet automation does not automatically solve the shortage of skilled workers. As installations become more complex and digitalised, the need for people who understand the technical processes involved actually increases.

Automation is changing the nature of work
Many processes that used to be monitored manually can now be controlled largely automatically. For example, a system can adjust a valve when pressure or temperature changes, without an operator having to intervene directly. This does not mean the operator’s role disappears. The focus of the work shifts from execution to monitoring, assessment and intervention in the event of deviations. This requires more than just the ability to work with a digital dashboard.

An unexpected measurement, for instance, may indicate an actual process problem, but it could also point to a faulty sensor or a fault in the signal transmission. To distinguish between the two, knowledge of the physical process remains essential.

Digital systems require new knowledge
In addition to traditional process engineering, skills relating to measurement and control technology, PLC control, sensors and industrial networks are becoming increasingly important. Anyone wishing to develop their skills in these areas might, for example, consider an ROVC course in process engineering. ROVC is a technical training provider that offers courses for professionals in process engineering and industry.

The volume of available data is also growing. Plants collect information on production, faults, energy consumption and wear and tear. This data can help to improve processes or plan maintenance in advance, but only if staff are able to interpret the signals correctly. More data does not, therefore, automatically mean better decisions. Technical knowledge remains essential to determine which deviations are relevant and when intervention is necessary.

The staff shortage is also becoming a knowledge issue
Automation can reduce routine work, but at the same time increases the technical demands placed on staff. As a result, the staff shortage is not just about the number of available technicians, but also about the knowledge they require.

For businesses, this means that investing in technology and investing in people are becoming increasingly intertwined. ROVC focuses, amongst other things, on technical training for the industry.

Skilled craftsmanship remains indispensable
Through further digitalisation, the process industry can alleviate some of the pressure on the labour market. However, the more autonomous installations become, the more important it is that there remain people who understand why a process deviates and what technical intervention is appropriate.