Workforce Development:
Building the next generation automation professional
Are you ready to launch a cool career in automation? Do you know someone who might be interested in automation?
If you believe in the old saying, “It takes a village to raise a child,” you will probably also agree that successful workforce development requires the assistance, cooperation, and involvement of both public and private sectors, as well as any individual who at one point or another has an opportunity—intentionally or unknowingly—to affect or influence a child’s education and career decisions.
What inspired previous generations to become automation professionals do not hold true for our future workforce, currently Generation Y. These young men and women are interested in personal benefits, flexibility, and a feeling of contributing toward a good cause as much as they are interested in money and job titles.
Knowing this, in the fall of 2007, ISA launched a workforce development program under the Automation Federation to ensure the growth of the future Automation Generation. This program focuses on building positive relationships with public and private sectors, initiating programs at various educational levels (K-6, 7-8, 9-12, college) as well as reaching out to the transitional workforce and individuals with limited college education.
Together with these groups, and via these programs, ISA and the Automation Federation are actively reaching out to the younger generation sharing the benefits of a career involving automation.
What can I do as an ISA Member to help raise awareness about a career in automation?
Spread the word about automation and the benefits of a career involving automation. Look for opportunities to visit and volunteer at your local schools. Sign up to become a mentor with ISA’s Mentor Program.
Current and Upcoming outreach programs and events:
2011 Engineers Week (EWEEK)
20-26 February 2011
Across the USA
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