Skilling for Emerging Technologies
The Indian construction equipment (CE) industry is at a pivotal juncture, driven by rapid urbanisation, infrastructure development, and government initiatives like PM Gati Shakti and the National Infrastructure Pipeline. As demand grows, so does the need for skilled professionals who can adapt to the industry's evolving technological landscape.
Need for Skilling in Emerging Technologies
From backhoe loaders and excavators to batching plants and concrete pumps, every piece of machinery is becoming smarter and more efficient due to technological advancements. Automation, telematics, advanced control systems, and electrification are no longer optional but essential components reshaping how equipment operates in India.
This transformation necessitates a workforce equipped with new-age skills to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot advanced construction equipment. Companies, educational institutions, and training providers must collaborate to develop a future-ready workforce.
Historically, the Indian CE sector relied heavily on mechanical systems. Operators manually controlled backhoe loaders, graders, and wheeled loaders, while maintenance teams dealt with straightforward mechanical repairs. However, the transition to electro-hydraulic and digital control systems has revolutionized the industry. Modern excavators now feature joystick-controlled precision, and AI-driven graders can autonomously level surfaces with unparalleled accuracy.
Automation has taken center stage, with self-operating compactors and robotics-assisted operations becoming a reality. Telematics and IoT integration allow fleet owners to monitor real-time data from pavers, single drum compactors, and mobile cranes, enabling predictive maintenance and minimising downtime. These advancements are not just enhancing efficiency but also driving the demand for new skills among operators, technicians, and engineers in India.
Companies like JCB, Tata Hitachi, Manitou, Terex, Komatsu, Volvo CE, Escorts, Mahindra, Sany, Doosan, and ACE, among others, are continuously innovating to introduce advanced machinery in the Indian market.
Key Emerging Technologies in Indian CE
- Automation and autonomous machines: Several manufacturers are exploring automation. Komatsu is developing autonomous hauling systems, and Caterpillar offers technologies related to machine automation.
JCB incorporates automated features in some of its machines. While fully autonomous machines are not yet widely deployed in India, manufacturers like Volvo CE and XCMG are demonstrating such technologies, and their adoption is expected to increase.
Telematics and IoT Integration: JCB's Livelink is a prominent example of telematics for backhoe loaders and other equipment. Tata Hitachi’s ConSite is another example. Telematics is becoming a standard feature offered by a growing number of CE manufacturers, including Volvo CE, Caterpillar (Product Link), and others. Ammann integrates technology into its equipment, including advanced paving control systems.
- Advanced control systems: Hyundai's advanced joystick controls offer increased precision and responsiveness. CASE Construction’s advanced systems incorporate sensor feedback for optimised performance.
- Electrification and alternative fuels: Schwing Stetter explores electric batching plants. Liebherr is researching hydrogen technology. Putzmeister is looking at hybrid and electric solutions for concrete pumps, including battery-powered and plug-in models. Companies like Volvo CE are actively working on electric construction equipment globally, which will likely come to India eventually.
New Skill Sets Required
To operate and maintain technologically advanced machines, professionals in the CE industry must acquire new skill sets. The key areas of expertise required for different roles are as follows:
- Operators: Training in telematics, automation, and remote monitoring systems.
- Technicians and service engineers: Skills in predictive maintenance, IoT-based diagnostics, and software-driven troubleshooting.
- Sales and product specialists: Understanding of AI-driven analytics, digital twin technology, and customer experience enhancement tools.
- Fleet managers: Knowledge of fleet optimization through GPS-based tracking, fuel efficiency management, and digital workflow automation.
- R&D and design teams: Competence in AI, ML, IoT, and sustainable construction technology.
Training & Development Strategies for India
To address the skills gap, a multi-pronged approach to training and development is essential:
- Role of OEMs and industry associations: OEMs like JCB India, Caterpillar India, Volvo CE India, Tata Hitachi, Komatsu India, Sany India, Doosan India, and ACE, among others, collaborate with industry bodies like ICEMA and CESCI to design standardised training programs. JCB’s operator training centres are a prime example.
- Simulation-based training: Komatsu and Tata Hitachi are among the companies’ utilising simulators for operator training. Other companies are also adopting this technology.
- Collaboration with educational institutions: Structured training programs in partnership with technical institutes like ITIs and polytechnics are crucial. These partnerships should extend to specialised institutions like NICMAR, which offers advanced programs in construction management and related technologies. Furthermore, collaborations with manufacturers like Ajax Engineering, who have their own training facilities and expertise in specific equipment types, are essential.
- On-the-job training v/s certification programmes: A balanced approach is necessary. CESCI's certification programmes are relevant here. Operators of advanced concrete batching plants, including those with sophisticated control systems, should undergo certified training.
Challenges in skilling for emerging technologies
Despite the need for upskilling, several challenges hinder the process:
- Lack of standardised training modules: There is no uniform skilling framework across different organisations. How to address this: Industry associations and academia should work together to create standardised certification programs.
- Limited availability of training infrastructure: Many vocational training centres lack modern equipment. How to address this: Public-private partnerships can help set up advanced training centres.
- Reluctance to adopt new technologies: Workers accustomed to conventional methods may resist change. How to address this: Awareness programmes and incentives should be introduced to encourage adoption.
- High training costs: Upskilling programmes require significant investment. How to address this: Government subsidies and employer-sponsored training programmes can mitigate cost barriers.
The Way Forward
To build a robust skilling ecosystem, collaboration is key. Industry leaders, educational institutions, and policymakers must work together to:
- Integrate technology-driven courses into vocational training programmes.
- Establish industry-academia partnerships for practical exposure.
- Provide continuous learning opportunities through digital platforms.
- Incentivise companies to invest in workforce skilling initiatives.
As India aspires to become a global manufacturing and infrastructure powerhouse, a skilled workforce will be a crucial driver of success. By investing in skilling initiatives and fostering industry-academic partnerships, India can build a workforce that is future-ready, globally competitive, and equipped to lead the CE industry's transformation.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Sanjay Pendharkar is an accomplished professional with over 35 years of dedicated experience in the construction and material handling equipment industry. Having worked extensively across PAN India and in Southeast Asia, he has gained a global perspective and invaluable insights into the industry. Presently, he serves as a knowledge partner for several multinational corporations and startups, alongside his role as an advisor to various companies. Additionally, he is proud to contribute as a Mentor of Change with Niti Aayog's "Atal Innovation Mission," reflecting his dedication to fostering innovation and driving positive change in the country.
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