Case Study: How Rockwell Automation Ensures Job Security for Employees with RAU

RAU was created to foster a culture of lifelong learning, encouraging employees to take charge of their development in line with their career goals and the company’s strategic objectives.

Rockwell Automation, a global leader in industrial automation and digital transformation, has been a cornerstone of innovation and growth in India for over four decades. Recognizing that its success hinges on the continuous development of its workforce, the company has placed significant emphasis on equipping its employees with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

One of the most critical components of this strategy is Rockwell Automation University (RAU), an innovative platform designed to empower the next generation of employees, particularly young professionals, to lead the company into the future.

Rockwell Automation University (RAU)

RAU was created to foster a culture of lifelong learning, encouraging employees to take charge of their development in line with their career goals and the company’s strategic objectives. “The idea behind RAU was to create a dedicated learning environment that goes beyond traditional training programmes,” says Abhishek Misra, head-HR, Rockwell Automation. “It was envisioned as a dynamic and accessible platform where employees, especially the younger workforce, could continuously upgrade their skills and stay relevant in an industry that is constantly evolving.”

Curriculum and Learning Flexibility

RAU serves as a comprehensive learning hub, offering a wide range of programmes focused on digital automation, functional technological skills, and industry-specific knowledge. Recognizing the diverse needs of its workforce, RAU provides flexible learning options that employees can access anytime, anywhere. The curriculum is continuously updated to reflect the latest industry trends and technological advancements, including courses on digital twins, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), generative AI (GenAI), and machine learning (ML).

Addressing Workforce Challenges

RAU plays a crucial role in addressing the challenges posed by an aging workforce. As experienced employees retire, there is a pressing need to capture and transfer their knowledge to the next generation of workers. To facilitate this, the university offers AR and VR-based training modules that simulate real-world scenarios, enabling younger employees to learn from the expertise of their predecessors.

Mentorship and Networking

Rockwell Automation University also serves as a platform for mentorship and networking. Young employees are given the opportunity to connect with experienced professionals and industry experts, both within and outside the company. These interactions provide invaluable insights, guidance, and opportunities to learn from those who have already navigated the industry’s complexities.

Seismic Approach to Learning and Development

In addition to RAU, Rockwell Automation has adopted a Seismic Approach to learning and development. This approach focuses on bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring that employees can effectively translate what they learn into actionable insights. “One of the key components of the Seismic Approach is the integration of digital tools and platforms that facilitate real-time collaboration and knowledge sharing,” reveals Misra. For instance, Rockwell has implemented cloud-based software solutions that allow employees to access information, collaborate with colleagues, and develop new solutions in a dynamic and interactive manner.

Leadership Development

The Seismic Approach also emphasizes the importance of leadership development. As Rockwell continues to expand its presence in India and beyond, there is a growing need for leaders who can navigate the complexities of a global business environment. To meet this need, Rockwell has partnered with a global talent-management firm to develop a competency-based leadership model. This model is designed to identify and nurture high-potential employees, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to lead the organization into the future.

Workday Learn

Complementing RAU and the Seismic Approach is Workday Learn, a platform that provides employees with leadership and technical skills training. Workday Learn has been a significant success for Rockwell, offering a wide array of courses that cater to both leadership development and technical upskilling. This platform plays a crucial role in preparing employees for the challenges of the modern workplace, ensuring they have the skills needed to advance their careers within the company. Moreover, Workday Learn supports Rockwell’s broader commitment to diversity and inclusion, offering courses that address the unique needs and challenges of different employee groups, including women, Gen Z, and millennials.

Measuring Impact and Effectiveness

To measure the impact and effectiveness of these initiatives, Rockwell Automation regularly collects and analyzes data on employee engagement, skill development, and career progression. This data is then used to refine and improve the programmes, ensuring that they continue to meet the evolving needs of the workforce. “One of the key metrics we use is measuring our employee retention rates,” asserts Misra. By providing employees with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive, Rockwell has been able to maintain a high level of employee engagement and reduce turnover. This, in turn, has contributed to the company’s overall growth and success in India and globally.

Challenges and Future Commitment

Despite the success of its training programmes, Rockwell Automation faces several challenges in its efforts to provide job security and career advancement for its employees. One of the primary challenges is keeping pace with the rapid technological changes that are reshaping the industry. To address this, Rockwell is committed to continuously updating its training programmes and investing in new technologies that enhance the learning experience. Another challenge is ensuring that all employees, regardless of their location or job function, have access to the resources they need to succeed. To overcome this, Rockwell is expanding its digital-learning platforms and increasing the availability of remote-learning options.

Conclusion

Looking ahead, Rockwell Automation remains committed to providing its employees with the tools and resources they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. As Rockwell continues to grow and evolve, it will undoubtedly continue to set the standard for employee development and job security in the industry.

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