Session: 18-01-05: Conventional Manufacturing

Paper Number: 151100

151100 - Bridging Skill Gaps in Mechanical Engineering for the Industries of Tomorrow 

As industries rapidly evolve with the advent of Industry 4.0, the demand for mechanical engineers equipped with advanced, multidisciplinary skills is unprecedented. The traditional education frameworks often lag in providing the necessary competencies to meet these new industrial demands. This paper explores the potential of online eLearning courses as a dynamic and accessible solution to bridge the skill gaps in Mechanical Engineering, preparing engineers for the industries of tomorrow.

The analysis begins by examining the current landscape of mechanical engineering education and its alignment with industry needs. The global eLearning market is projected to reach $325 billion by 2025, up from $165 billion in 2019, indicating a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8%. According to a survey by Deloitte, 89% of executives report a shortage of talent in the manufacturing industry, with mechanical engineering being one of the most affected areas. Technological advancements, such as additive manufacturing, automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and Internet of Things (IoT), are redefining engineering roles and the required skillsets. Traditional mechanical engineering curricula, while robust in foundational principles, frequently fall short in incorporating these emerging technologies and interdisciplinary approaches. This discrepancy results in a significant skill gap between the graduates and expectations of modern industries. A report by McKinsey & Company highlights that by 2030, up to 14% of the global workforce will need to switch occupations due to automation and AI, necessitating significant reskilling.

Online eLearning courses offer a flexible, scalable, and cost-effective method to address this skill gap. Unlike conventional classroom settings, eLearning platforms can deliver interactive and engaging content through videos, simulations, virtual labs, and real-time assessments. These features enhance the learning experience and retention of complex concepts. Research has shown that despite the shift to remote learning, students’ grades and demonstration in the knowledge of mechanical engineering did not decline.

Furthermore, the accessibility and flexibility of eLearning make it an ideal solution for continuous professional development. Practicing engineers can update their skills and knowledge without interrupting their careers, thus staying abreast of technological advancements. According to LinkedIn Learning, 58% of employees prefer to learn at their own pace, and 49% prefer to learn at the point of need, demonstrating the flexibility advantage of eLearning platforms. This paper explores various eLearning models, including Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), micro-credentialing, and certificate programs, and their effectiveness in providing ongoing education and training.

In conclusion, online eLearning courses present a transformative approach to bridging the skill gaps in Mechanical Engineering. This paper calls for a concerted effort to integrate eLearning into mainstream education and professional development frameworks, ensuring that the mechanical engineering workforce is well-prepared to meet the dynamic challenges of the future. By embracing eLearning, we can create a more adaptable, skilled, and innovative engineering community capable of leading the technological advancements of tomorrow.

Presenting Author: Kavita Krishnamurthy THORS eLearning Solutions

Presenting Author Biography: Kavita Krishnamurthy is an ASQ certified Six Sigma Black Belt with over 20 years of experience in the field of process improvement, manufacturing engineering, and quality management in the automotive and gear industries. Her involvement includes work in condenser manufacturing for both off-highway and on-highway products and gear and gear drive manufacturing for heavy industrial, locomotive, and wind components. Her expertise is in continuous improvement and process optimization for various products and processes. Kavita earned her Bachelor of Engineering from the University of Madras in Chennai, India, and her Master of Science degree in industrial engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Currently, Kavita serves as the Director of Product Development at THORS eLearning Solutions, where she is spearheading product development through industry research and course gap analysis. She also oversees the creation of technical content, manage data-driven analysis on production milestones, and ensure timely project execution by optimizing processes and developing a robust network of subject matter experts.

Authors:

Kavita Krishnamurthy THORS eLearning Solutions
Lilly Mercy J THORS eLearning Solutions