Industry 4.0 Automation Adoption and HR Upskilling Strategies with Social Reskilling for Manufacturing Workforce
Keywords:
industrial automation, hr upskilling, social reskilling, structural unemployment, manufacturing, workforce adaptation, industry 4.0Abstract
The penetration of Industry 4.0 automation and robotic technologies in the manufacturing sector triggers a redefinition of workforce competence requirements while simultaneously posing the threat of structural unemployment. This study aims to analyze the impact of automation adoption on the formulation of human resource upskilling strategies and to formulate a social reskilling framework for affected workers. An exploratory qualitative methodology based on applied grounded theory was employed to construct empirical insights through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations in manufacturing facilities. The findings indicate that the success of upskilling strategies depends on integrating machine performance data into training curricula, utilizing digital simulation learning modules, and actively involving supervisors as mentors. Conversely, mitigating the threat of structural unemployment requires a community-based social reskilling framework involving government active social safety nets, corporate outplacement assistance, and the empowerment of independent digital literacy. This study concludes that the sustainability of Industry 4.0 transformation demands harmonization between technological modernization and human capital protection to achieve inclusive and equitable economic growth.
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