Exploring technician competency requirements in industry 4.0 apparel shop floor production

• Main Author: Janis, Ilyana
• Format: Thesis
• Published: 2021
• Subjects: T Technology (General); HD8038 Professions (General). Professional employees
• Online Access: http://eprints.uthm.edu.my/4840/

The high reliance on advanced technology in the manufacturing sector in the era of Industry 4.0 is expected to neccesstate new competency that is not yet adequately understood. Futhermore, no clear requirement on technician competency within the context of Industry 4.0 and therefore, requires extensive research to understand the technician competency requirements in Industry 4.0. This study explores the necessary competency requirements for the thechnician in Industry 4.), specifically in apparel shop floor production. Methodologically, aqualitative case study was conducted in two apparel companies. Sixteen participants, including technicians, managers, production personnel and Industry 4.0 experts, were approached using participant observation, semi-structured interviews and document analysis techniques. Based on the thematic analysis, the findings reveal three insights: the transition process in Industry 40.. eight categories of technician competency based on current requirements and four categories of technician competency based on future requirements for the transition process in Industry 4.0. Significantly, clear technician competency requirements are provided as a source of reference to help manufacturers and technical, vocational education and training (TVET) providers and policymakers better understand the role of technician and technician and their necessary competencies within the context of Industry 4.0.