The construction industry is witnessing a growing reliance on advanced technologies, including digitization, sensor-based systems, and Internet of Things (IoT) integration. This has increased the need for skilled operators and technicians who can handle such sophisticated machinery. However, the industry faces a shortage of qualified personnel, creating challenges for productivity, efficiency, and safety. This article explores the industry’s efforts to address this gap, government initiatives, and the importance of formal training and certification for machine operators and mechanics.
The Need for Skilled Operators and Mechanics
The introduction of advanced technologies in construction equipment, such as cranes, hoists, dumpers, and forklifts, has made it essential to ensure that operators have the technical skills to use these machines optimally. According to H.S. Mohan, CEO of the Infrastructure Equipment Skill Council (IESC), operator skills directly impact machine performance, and unskilled operators can cause significant inefficiencies. He highlights that about 75% of the demand in the CE industry is for basic and supervisory skills, including machine operation.
Despite the growing demand, there is no mandate requiring operators and mechanics to be certified, which makes it difficult to mobilize a skilled workforce. Government-led skill training programs are also facing issues such as lack of funding, poor institutional infrastructure, and low-quality training standards.
Role of the Government and OEMs
The government, through initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), is supporting skill development in the CE industry. However, these programs are often not market-driven and face challenges related to funding and quality. The IESC has been working with industry bodies like the Indian Construction Equipment Manufacturers Association (ICEMA) to encourage the government to mandate certification for operators through phased implementation.
In response, many Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) have taken the initiative to bridge this skill gap. Over 44 OEMs have partnered with IESC to establish world-class training centers, ensuring operators are well-equipped to handle high-tech machines. Companies like JCB, for example, have already trained over 30,000 operators across 18 training centers in India and Nepal. OEMs also offer practical training through simulators, industry competitions, and hands-on experience at job sites to enhance the skillsets of operators.
Challenges in Upskilling Operators
Despite efforts from both the government and OEMs, upskilling remains a major challenge. For example, while JCB and other companies have made significant investments in operator training, there is still no regulatory mandate requiring operators to be certified, which undermines the demand for training programs. Furthermore, training costs are high, and there are limited opportunities for on-the-job training, especially in remote areas where construction equipment is commonly deployed.
One major challenge is the lack of proper infrastructure for training centers, including simulators and modern equipment. Additionally, many operators come from rural backgrounds with low literacy levels, making it harder for them to understand complex technological features. The industry’s reliance on unskilled operators also creates safety concerns, as improper operation of heavy equipment can lead to accidents.
Importance of Certification and Formal Training
Many industry leaders, including Dimitrov Krishnan, President of ICEMA and Managing Director of Volvo CE India, emphasize the importance of formal training and certification to ensure safety and productivity. Certified operators not only reduce the risk of accidents but also improve equipment performance and lifespan. However, there is currently no legal requirement for machine operators in India to have formal training, unlike in global markets where certifications are mandatory.
Certification and formal training programs are seen as critical for the future of the industry, especially as more technologically advanced equipment is being introduced. The construction equipment sector in India is expected to require over 3 million trained operators and mechanics by 2030 to meet the demands of the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) and the Gati Shakti National Master Plan.
The Role of Industry Bodies and Training Institutes
The IESC plays a pivotal role in bridging the skill gap by developing National Occupational Standards (NOS), Qualification Packs, and Skilling Standards. Since its inception, IESC has trained over 50,000 personnel and certified 800 trainers. It works with over 60 training partners, including major OEMs, to offer training programs that meet industry needs.
Tata Hitachi and other companies have also been actively involved in training initiatives. For example, L&T’s Central Training Centre in Kanchipuram offers specialized training programs using state-of-the-art simulators. Similarly, Komatsu’s excavators come equipped with telematics systems (KOMTRAX), which track machine performance and help operators improve their efficiency. These efforts are helping to create a skilled workforce, but there is still much work to be done to meet the growing demand.
The Road Ahead for Skilling in the CE Industry
As demand for infrastructure development continues to rise in India, the need for a skilled workforce will become even more pressing. The CE industry must work collectively with the government, training institutes, and OEMs to create a robust skilling ecosystem. Making certification mandatory for operators and mechanics will drive demand for training programs and help address the skill gap.
Additionally, innovative approaches like virtual reality (VR) simulators and portable training centers could help reach operators in remote areas. Furthermore, the industry’s focus on sustainability and reducing operational costs will push operators to use advanced technologies more effectively, enhancing overall productivity.
While the CE industry has made significant strides in addressing the skill gap, much remains to be done. Formal training, certification, and greater industry-government collaboration are essential to ensuring that India’s construction equipment sector can meet future demands efficiently and safely.
