Analyzing the main competences required for the implementation of Industry 4.0 in the Uruguayan agro-industry sector

Abstract

In parallel with the technical challenges related to Industry 4.0, a challenge arises about how to prepare current and future workers so that they can adapt to future jobs, which will demand new requirements in terms of competences and skills. The main objective of this paper is to investigate which competences will be essential towards the future jobs in the agro-industry sector. The investigation was focused in this sector, since is one of the economic sectors with the greatest risk of job automation. An extensive literature review, followed by in depth interviews to relevant stakeholders in the agricultural sector in Uruguay were conducted in order to identify the main competences considered critical towards the future. In particular, radar graphs were created, showing the actual and expected level of development of 31 professional competences, divided into four main categories. The competences acknowledged by the stakeholders as most relevant for the future are: IT knowledge, Ability to interact with modern interfaces, Active Learning, Analytical and Logical Thinking, Oral expression, Teamwork, Trust in technology and Flexibility.