Developing the Workforce of Tomorrow, Today

Developing the Workforce of Tomorrow, Today

Encouraging Transformation

What do new technologies such as the Internet of Things, Additive Manufacturing, Collaborative Robotics and Virtual Reality have in common? They are revolutionizing the way companies design, produce and sell their products and services. On one hand we have a generation of youth with enormous potential, on the other we have technology which is becoming more accessible to everyone. At FCA we are bringing these two worlds together through many programs across the globe. One of these initiatives involves schools that are using e.DO.

eDO Comau - Infographic meaking, learning, creating

e.DO was launched by Comau, FCA’s production systems brand, and is an innovative training program that includes a flexible and interactive robot. It is designed to stimulate creativity and participation inside and outside a classroom setting. Students can use the robot to enhance their skills and knowledge on various subjects including robotics, Science, Technology, Engineering and Math subjects (STEM), cooperation, communication, problem-solving, teamwork, creativity and other soft skills. With e.Do, subjects like math, physics and technology are easier to learn and more fun.

Based on the success of the program in Italy, Comau launched a similar robotics training project in China and the U.S., and is considering more programs in South Africa, India and other countries.

Supporting Education, Experience and Passion

FCA Foundation Infographic - Supporting Education

At FCA, we believe in young people. This is why in 2018, the FCA Foundation awarded approximately €470,000 in grants in the U.S. and Canada to FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology). FIRST is an international, not-for-profit organization founded to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology. FCA employees served as team mentors to guide student teams at the grade school, high school and middle school levels to design, build and program robots to perform prescribed tasks against a field of competitors. Through this process, students learn basic physics, electrical and mechanical engineering, and machining skills, as well as teamwork and collaboration.

Building upon the school-age programs, FCA supports university students who are looking to show their passion for the automotive industry and gain experience at the same time.
In 2018, FCA North America hosted its sixth annual Test & Tune event where the Company welcomed teams of engineering students to its legendary proving grounds in Chelsea, Michigan (U.S.). More than 250 students from more than 20 schools in the U.S. and Canada refined the performance of vehicles to enter in Formula SAE, a renowned design competition sponsored by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). FCA engineers were onsite and offered support as the engineering students prepared for the car-building competitions.

Preparing for Technical Careers

Developing the workforce of tomorrow also includes providing education and opportunities related to automotive technician careers. One such initiative is TechPro² program. This international project is a three-year program for selected students who receive theoretical and practical knowledge from Salesian Vocational Training Center instructors. The instructors receive professional training by FCA employees, while the training centers are designed and equipped by FCA and include the service standards used within the FCA dealer network. Second and third-year students of the program also gain important hands-on experience through internships and apprenticeships.

A similar project is led by FCA’s parts and service brand, Mopar, which collaborates with the Cottolengo school in Turin (Italy) on the MeccaniCotto project. This project is focused on helping young students by providing them with the necessary skills needed for a position in vehicle maintenance. Cottolengo focused their 2018 efforts on bringing autistic students into the program. Mopar supplied the school with working labs, tools and equipment, and provided training on quick service processes and standards to Cottolengo’s trainers.

FCA’s sustainability commitment to advance youth education and training, with emphasis on science, technology, engineering and math programs is aligned with the principles of the United Nations 2030 Agenda and the following Sustainable Development Goals: