advanced diagnostics on existing equipment, as well as put in place proactive maintenance strategies. “We can use data analytics and IoT technologies to predict equipment failures before they occur, helping to reduce downtime and its associated costs.? “Plus, the service is extremely flexible. Manufacturers can fully outsource service and maintenance, or we can integrate into existing service and maintenance teams, bolstering team numbers and providing them with 24/7 access to a specialist, skilled team knowledge. All this is backed by tailored service level agreements for complete peace of mind.” But the value of outsourcing doesn’t just lie in direct support and intervention to manage technology; it also extends into longterm workforce development. Andy McPhee continues: “External partners, such as Rittal, can play a crucial role in bridging the skills gap by providing support and training to in-house teams. “Our engineers have been trained at our Head Office in Germany - home to Rittal’s global product development, manufacturing and innovation teams. “They can collaborate with an existing maintenance team to help enhance staff capabilities in highly specialised areas such as machine learning and AI predictive maintenance. We’ve seen how this approach can help foster an in-house culture of continuous improvement which is typically faster than manufacturers would otherwise be able to do, potentially boosting recruitment, and increasing worker satisfaction and retention levels.” Addressing the current skills shortage in British manufacturing will require long-term investment, involving the collaboration of industry partners, educational institutions, and the government. It’s hoped that the sector’s rapid adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies, IoT, and AI will help make the sector more attractive as a career option to younger, tech-savvy workers which will, over time, boost recruitment ratings.? But at a time when operating margins are under huge pressure, there is an urgent need for businesses to increase their efficiency levels and invest in skills development. More needs to be done, not just to support training and apprenticeships, but also in embracing partnerships with external service and maintenance teams to cost-effectively navigate the immediate challenges of persistent production breakdowns. Plus, as we’ve seen, such collaborations also contribute to the long-term development of a skilled and adaptable workforce, and this will be essential for the sustained success of the sector across future generations.? For further information please visit: www.rittal.co.uk www.hpmag.co.uk HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS June 2025 35
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