As Singapore paves its way to a truly digital economy, one of the key factors of success will be its workforce. The government is currently embarking on a transition, involving 23 sectors and covering 80 percent of the economy. This is in response to trends across the globe, where intelligent technology is already changing the nature of jobs today and creating demand for the skills of tomorrow. They include a wide spectrum of capabilities—from data analytics and cyber security to robotics.
For talent in Singapore, the good news is that they are in a prime position to capitalise on transformations in the working environment. Technological developments in areas such as smart manufacturing are opening up new horizons to explore.
For instance, Rolls-Royce recently announced a new smart manufacturing initiative—together with Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) and Singapore Aero Engine Services Private Limited (SAESL). The collaboration aims to pioneer next-generation aerospace manufacturing and Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities through the development of cutting-edge manufacturing technologies, such as additive layer manufacturing (3D industrial printing) of complex aero-engine components, as well as advanced robotic and automated solutions. This research could subsequently carry significant spin-off benefits to other relevant local industry sectors.
As more programmes like these take flight, smart manufacturing will continue to drive innovation across a variety of industry sectors, improving the competencies of the local workforce and empowering them to take on more high value jobs.
Here are three ways it can potentially do so: