Industry requires 2,00,000 operators each year
Established in 2014, Infrastructure Equipment Skill Council (IESC) is the apex body for spearheading the skilling of workforce in the construction equipment sector in India. IESC’s CEO, Vijay Kumar, speaks on the evolving skill requirements within the industry.
How does IESC stay attuned to evolving skill requirements within the industry?
IESC maintains close collaborations with OEMs, component manufacturers, and end-users to stay informed about emerging skill needs and industry trends. Industry studies, such as Vision 2030, offer a macro view of technology trends and skill requirements, which are translated into actionable skills roadmaps. Regular workshops and focus group discussions with industry stakeholders help identify specific skill areas needing attention.
How does IESC support skill development in the construction and infrastructure equipment industry?
IESC plays a pivotal role in promoting skill development within India’s construction equipment sector. As the leading body for skilling, IESC bridges the gap between the Government (both Central and State) and the industry, focusing on skilling-related matters. The Council collaborates with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET), ensuring that its job roles align with the National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF). IESC’s key initiatives include:
- Skill mapping: Identifying sector-specific skill gaps, developing National Occupational Standards (NOS), creating skill development plans, and drafting Qualification Packs for various job roles.
- Affiliation and accreditation: Setting up a clear process for the affiliation of training partners and the accreditation of training centres.
- Trainer development: Organising Training of Trainers (ToT) programmes to cultivate a network of trainers across the country.
- Assessment & certification: IESC assesses and certifies candidates through its nominated assessment agencies upon successful completion of training programmes.
- Qualification Upgradation: The Council constantly tracks technological advancements, introduces new job roles, and aligns with global best practices to upgrade qualifications.
What job roles and equipment categories are included in IESC’s training programmes?
IESC currently offers 28 NSQF-aligned job roles, covering a wide range of construction equipment categories. These roles primarily focus on operators for equipment such as backhoe loaders, excavators, cranes, and compactors, among others. These roles represent nearly 90 per cent of the construction equipment sold in India by volume. Additionally, there are technician roles specializing in areas like engines, hydraulics, electrical/electronics, and instrumentation. IESC also offers supervisory roles in maintenance and plant and machinery, which are valuable for professionals such as workshop managers and field service managers.
With around 1,00,000 construction equipment sold annually, the industry requires 2,00,000 operators and 7,000 trained technicians each year. IESC’s qualifications ensure these professionals are adequately skilled to maximise productivity, safety, and efficiency in the field.
Can you outline the curriculum for IESC’s training programmes?
IESC’s training programmes are structured through qualification packs, which outline the course curriculum for each job role. These qualifications are built on the National Occupational Standards (NOS), setting performance benchmarks for each function in the workplace. For example, an Equipment Operator’s training will cover not just machine operation, but also pre-checks, basic troubleshooting, safety, and environmental considerations. This comprehensive approach helps operators gain a holistic understanding of their roles.
Recently, employability skills, such as communication, financial literacy, and computer skills, have been added to the curriculum, further enhancing the training’s value. The programmes are developed with input from industry experts, ensuring they meet the specific needs of various equipment categories, including earthmoving, road building, concrete, material handling, and mineral processing.
Training includes a blend of classroom learning (about 30 per cent of the course duration), hands-on practical experience, and on-the-job training. Many training centres now also incorporate simulators to enhance the learning process.
Does IESC partner with educational institutions or industry bodies to deliver training?
IESC collaborates extensively with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), private training partners, and academic institutions to deliver its training programmes. Partnerships with OEMs allow IESC to conduct training at OEM-owned training centres or field locations. Additionally, IESC works with various academic institutions to foster industry awareness, educating students on equipment types, usage, operational economics, maintenance practices, and spare parts management. The council is also exploring partnerships with higher education institutions to develop courses focused on the construction equipment sector.
How are assessments conducted for IESC’s training programmes?
IESC’s assessment process is rooted in the National Occupational Standards (NOS), with each Performance Criteria (PC) assigned specific weightages based on its importance. Knowledge assessments are conducted through written tests, viva voce, or both, while practical skills are assessed through hands-on tasks. Trainees are also evaluated on their behaviour and attitude during practical exercises. All assessments follow IESC's guidelines, and question papers are derived from a comprehensive question bank developed specifically for the construction equipment sector.
What steps does IESC take to connect trained individuals with job opportunities?
Despite an estimated 15 lakh equipment operators and mechanics working across India, only a small fraction has formal training and certification. IESC addresses this gap through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) programme, aimed at upskilling workers already in the industry. The Council also focuses on providing fresh training to youth, especially from Tier II and III cities, helping them secure employment or entrepreneurial opportunities. Public and private sector partnerships play a crucial role in facilitating training programmes, and IESC also leverages CSR funds from OEMs and other sources to help fund training for new recruits.
What are IESC’s future plans to enhance skill development in the sector?
IESC is focused on expanding its operations and increasing its impact in the industry by:
- Strengthening collaborations with OEMs and government bodies to drive skill development initiatives.
- Expanding its network of training partners to meet the growing demand for skilled operators and technicians across India.
- Increasing the scope of its membership base, incorporating new qualifications at NSQF levels 5 and above, and forming partnerships with educational institutions and ITIs.
Another critical area of focus for IESC is the introduction of programmes focused on future skills, driven by technological advancements in the construction equipment industry. This includes upskilling initiatives around new technologies and methods that will optimise productivity, safety, and efficiency in the sector.
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