The effect of CAM technologies on training activities

Abstract

Training programs that plants use to help their employees adapt to different types of CAM technologies are examined based on a national probability survey of manufacturing establishments. The types of training programs offered are first described, then the relationship of type of training to the type of CAM equipment in place is examined. For managers implementing CAM, the data suggest that training programs must be tailored to the hardware and needs of individual plants, that training needs dramatically increase as equipment is integrated, and that training programs generally teach the minimum about machine operation, safety, and knowledge of technological advances in the plant to at least machine operators and shop floor supervisors. Additional training needs will depend on the specific equipment introduced (e.g., robots necessitate training in human relations).