In context
As automation adoption accelerates worldwide to counter labor shortages, industries face a growing bottleneck: a shortage of skilled robot programmers. Traditionally confined to large automotive manufacturers and specialist integrators, robot programming skills are now essential across logistics, healthcare, and SMEs. In 2024, robot orders in food and consumer goods surged by 65%, underscoring the urgent need for accessible, industry-relevant training.
What was reported
RoboDK launched RoboDK Academy, a free, self-paced online training platform designed to teach industrial robot programming through simulation and offline programming. The platform combines hands-on projects, step-by-step tutorials, and video walkthroughs, catering to beginners through advanced learners. No physical robots or expensive hardware are required, and courses are compatible with RoboDK's free trial software.
The curriculum emphasizes practical, software-driven learning, with courses like the Pick and Place module covering station setup, object attachment, program looping, and subprogram building. Upon completion, learners receive certificates to validate their skills. RoboDK plans to expand the course catalog, add more languages, and partner with institutions globally.
RoboDK CEO Albert Nubiola stated: “Automation and robotics adoption is accelerating to address labor shortages, but there’s a global shortage of skilled robotics talent. With RoboDK Academy, we aim to upskill workers and support this transition.”
Why it mattered
RoboDK Academy directly addresses the critical skills gap in industrial automation by lowering barriers to entry—offering free, vendor-neutral training that is transferable across robot brands and industries. This initiative supports workforce upskilling and broader automation adoption, particularly for SMEs and emerging sectors, potentially accelerating the integration of robotics in manufacturing worldwide.
“With RoboDK Academy, we aim to upskill workers and support this transition.”
Source: Robotics & Automation News (roboticsandautomationnews.com) · Published 2025-09-01 · “RoboDK launches new training academy to ‘bridge the global robotics skills gap’”