Rockwell Automation Expands Training Business to Meet Changing Market Demands
Over 60 new instructor-led courses, ControlLogix Certificate Program and safety seminars added to help companies better train workforce as labor pool shrinks
MILWAUKEE, May 27, 2008 - Rockwell Automation, (NYSE: ROK) today announced it has expanded its training business by adding more than 60 new instructor-led courses, a ControlLogix Certificate Program, and machine safety seminars to its portfolio.
The new additions, along with the existing instructor-led courses and self-paced training products offered by Rockwell Automation Training Services, are designed to help manufacturers and other users of industrial automation address changing business trends, such as the shortage of skilled technical workers, and expanded knowledge expectations requiring workers to understand subjects like management, quality and safety.
"Engineers, technicians and managers with automation-related responsibilities are retiring in droves, taking hard-earned technical knowledge and experience with them," said Brandon Day, senior manager, Training Services, Rockwell Automation.
"Our expanded training offering can help companies so that their staff has the right technical and management knowledge to stay ahead of the competition in this quickly evolving market landscape."
The expanded offerings were developed to integrate with the existing performance-based training methodology used by Rockwell Automation. This methodology combines traditional instruction, hands-on practice, and refresher exercises to help maximize participants' subject matter retention and successfully apply their new knowledge on the job.
New instructor-led courses address a variety of automation-related disciplines including quality, manufacturing, safety, engineering and management. Like other Rockwell Automation instructor-led courses, new courses are offered at locations throughout the United States and can be scheduled by calling a local Allen-Bradley distributor or 440.646.3434 (Option 4). Rockwell Automation Training Services is recognized as an authorized provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) and participants earn continuing education credits upon course completion.
As the qualified labor pool shrinks, manufacturers must identify reliable ways for their workforce to acquire the required competency in specific technical areas as well. The new Rockwell Automation ControlLogix Certificate Program was developed to help meet this need. The requirements for the certificate program include completion of three ControlLogix instructor-led courses related to the participant's job responsibilities (maintenance or programming), plus one course elective. Upon completion of the courses, an online assessment confirms students' understanding of course content. Achieving certification also provides a source of professional recognition and CEU credits that can aid future advancement. For employers, a certified workforce provides peace of mind that workers have the technical capabilities to obtain their goals and objectives.
Machine safety is a key consideration for manufacturers, but standards and technologies change often. To help companies stay current on safety-related topics, Rockwell Automation Training Services will hold four new one-day machine safety seminars between June and September at locations across the United States. The seminars are designed for those in both leadership and technical roles.
Michael Duta, a safety consultant with more than 23 years of engineering experience, will conduct the seminars. Duta has in-depth knowledge of applicable safety standards (ANSI, OSHA, EN, IEC, ISO, NFPA), and is skilled in electrical and mechanical integration with regard to machine safety - encompassing safety relays to safety PLCs.
Seminar topics include Components of a Successful Machine Safety Program, OSHA Compliance, Standards + Technology and Improving the Bottom Line, Safety Component Applications Based on Machine Safety Standards, Safety Circuit Design, and Risk Assessment Methodology. Upon completion of the seminar, attendees will be able to:
o Reference and apply safeguarding application examples o Choose the appropriate safety standard for your application o Validate a safety system o Determine the correct circuit architecture o Understand the risk assessment process and methodology o Champion the benefits of a properly designed safety system
Rockwell Automation Inc. (NYSE: ROK) is a leading global provider of industrial automation power, control and information solutions that help manufacturers achieve a competitive advantage in their businesses. The company brings together leading global brands in industrial automation that include Allen-Bradley controls and services, and Rockwell Software factory management software. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., the company employs about 20,000 people serving customers in more than 80 countries.
For more information on Rockwell Automation Services & Support, please contact the Rockwell Automation Response Center, 10701 Hampshire Avenue South, Bloomington, Minn., 55438, 800.223.5354, ext. 2091. http://www.rockwellautomation.com/services/training
Kevin Oswald Rockwell Automation 440.646.7844 kjoswald@ra.rockwell.com
Michelle Haschka Padilla Speer Beardsley Inc. 612.455.1788 mhaschka@psbpr.com
Company Information: Name: Rockwell Automation Address: 1201 South Second Street City: Milwaukee State: WI ZIP: 53204 Country: USA Phone: 414-382-2000 FAX: 414-382-4444 http://www.rockwellautomation.com/
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