Industry 4.0 in NZ: How Advanced Tech is Revolutionising Engineering Apprenticeships

As the world’s technology evolves, so does the way we handle engineering apprenticeships. We’ve changed from mainly doing things with our hands to using machines, advanced tools and technology. Industry 4.0 has transformed the way we design, create and repair components. 

What Is Industry 4.0?

This is the fourth industrial revolution. It’s driven by automation, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things and digitalisation. This has affected nearly all parts of the technological world, from entertainment to education.

A few key technologies behind this industrial revolution are:

Internet Of Things. Internet of Things, also known as IoT, is a technology that uses sensors to connect individual elements in a manufacturing system to a single computer. This gives the computer and the user access to real-time monitoring and accurate, up-to-date data. IoT can be used to monitor performance, so engineers can keep an eye on different parts and act accordingly whenever issues arise.

IoT gives engineers and apprentices more control over the manufacturing process. These sensors also save plenty of time and eliminate human errors.

Big Data Analytics. This is a comprehensive information source that is used to improve manufacturing and operations. Big data analytics let engineers find, analyse and store data throughout the engineering process. This data can improve design, efficiency, creativity and more so that engineers can devise better solutions.

Engineering Simulation. Industry 4.0 technologies allow engineers to create and simulate solutions in a virtual environment. 3D images and advanced designs can help engineers and apprentices get a closer look at designs to find flaws, improve designs and more.

Digital tools can speed up the design process and make it easier to create, edit and share ideas.

Additive Manufacturing. 3D and 4D printing tech can help engineers design and manufacture new products. Additive manufacturing is already being utilised across a range of industries, from engineering to healthcare.

How Industry 4.0 Is Transforming Engineering Apprenticeships For NZ Apprentices

In the past, apprenticeships and the field of engineering as a whole were mainly handled in a hands-on way. Pencil-and-paper blueprints and reports, in-person instructions and hands-on manufacturing work were the norm.

However, with advanced technology, things have changed. Digital tools make it easier to design components effectively, document information, access instructions, and create new products. Industry 4.0 has made engineering apprenticeships much more streamlined and accessible for everyone who’s interested in pursuing an engineering path.

Online Learning And Studying With Digital Resources. Apprentices can access training materials and coursework online, without having to visit a physical place of education. This makes learning material much more accessible for people who want to stay on top of their studies. E-learning platforms let apprentices study at their own pace, even when they’re at home and not at the company where they’re apprenticing.

Potential apprentices can learn more about their possible courses by looking at apprenticeships online. At ATNZ, we have plenty of information on our website for those who are interested in becoming engineers. You can explore our options and discover what interests you the most.

We also have short courses available, if you’re searching for something shorter than full apprenticeships

Staying Connected With Online Methods. Staying connected is a must throughout your engineering career, from the time you start your apprenticeship to when you become a fully trained engineer. Stay in touch with your account manager, host company, coworkers and other essential parties.

When you apprentice with us at ATNZ, you’ll have an account manager who will visit you once a month. But, you can contact them online in between in-person visits.

Online voice calls, messaging apps and video calls make it so much easier to receive guidance in real time, no matter where you or your account manager are.

Digital Collaboration With Fellow Apprentices. Connecting with other engineering apprentices who are in the same boat as you can enrich your entire experience. Use online forums, online study groups and more to create a strong learning community where you lift each other up. Interacting with other apprentices can help you form new, lasting relationships.

While there are in-person study groups in many areas, online groups make the community much more accessible for those who don’t know others in the area or who want to extend their reach.

Data-Driven Progress Tracking And Assessments. Digital platforms allow for real-time tracking of an apprentice’s progress, so everyone can have a clear view of how well you are progressing in your coursework. AI-powered assessments can also be used to analyse your experience.

Industry 4.0 And The Future Of Engineering Apprenticeships In New Zealand

Technological advancements are making engineering apprenticeships more streamlined, inclusive and accessible for Kiwis who want to kickstart their careers. At ATNZ, we stay on top of the latest technological advancements and continue to evolve so we can support our hopeful apprentices.

We do whatever we can to make our courses accessible and inclusive, and we support learners of all genders, backgrounds and races. We welcome Maori, Pasifika and women learners who are interested in our engineering apprenticeships. 

Would you like to get started? Book a chat at .

ATNZ: Let’s start your path to a brighter future.