Hone Your Skills

With the increasing number of employers looking at job aspirants’ technical skills instead of their degrees, many students have started focusing on improving their skills. Bernadette Braganza looks at four vocational careers in which technical skill development is a must

Interviewers consider technical skills as an important asset. Technical skills mean the knowledge and capability of a person to perform a specific task. These skills could be in the form of mathematical skills, computer skills, engineering skills, management skills, etc. Following are some careers which require technical skills.

TEXTILE DESIGN
If you have an interest in designing your and others outfits or home décor, then this is the field for you. Textile design is the development and creation of designs for fabrics. It involves designing the structure and look of the textile. A textile designer can work in various industries like the fashion industry, home textiles and accessories designing among others. It is essentially the process of creating designs for woven, knitted or printed fabrics or surface ornamented fabrics. Textile designers are involved with the production of these designs, which are used, sometimes repetitively, in clothing and interior decor items. The field encompasses the actual pattern making while supervising the production process. In other words, textile design is a process from the raw material into finished product. Fibre, yarn and finishes are the key elements to be considered during the textile design procedure. A textile designer can earn anything in between Rs. 190,000 to 220,000 per year depending upon experience, skills and industry. Getting trained in textile design can open doors to various fields.

CHALLENGES:
With the large amount of designers designing various patterns, it’s a competitive industry. The work of a textile designer may also involve repeated exposure to various chemicals and dyes. Also, another challenge is in keeping up with the changing technology, working at irregular hours and coming up with design ideas quickly.

JOB PROSPECTS:
The Indian textile industry contributes to about 14% of industrial production, 4% to the Indian GDP and employment to over 35 million people. The career opportunities for this field are varied. A person with a Textile Designing degree can opt to work as an apparel designer, pattern- maker, textile researcher, costume designer and much more. Bhushan Huddar, who is the product & development incharge at Livanto says that “It is difficult to state the scope because in today’s world the scope depends on the individual rather than any field. If we see things traditionally then the scope is decreasing due to closing down of mills and digitalization of designing. But a creative and hard working person may look at this as positive points. Conventional jobs in industrial houses are getting lesser but new opportunities are opening up if you know designing techniques well.”

INSTITUTIONS:
National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) National Institute of Design (NID) Vogue Institute of Fashion Technology National Institute of Fashion Designing (NIFD)

INSTITUTES ABROAD OFFERING THIS COURSE:
Philadelphia University
University of the Arts, London
Accademia Europea
DIS Scandinavia

MACHINE OPERATOR
If working with heavy machinery interests you, then you should consider a career as a machine operator. Machine operators or Machinists are people who run, monitor and maintain machines. A machine operator is trained to use different types of machines which enables him/ her to operate different machines in various job sectors. The job of the machine operator entails operating high speed sophisticated machines by managing settings and conducting tests to ensure a successful operation in the production process. The operator’s duties also include selecting specific raw materials for production and ensuring a good combination of these materials so that they complement each other. As one responsible for production, Operators of machines usually ensure that all production materials are never in shortage. They place order for more materials even while little is remaining. Other things they do include maintaining a cordial relationship with clients to make them feel good and comfortable about bringing more jobs to the organization and even recommending them to more clients.Machine Operators can earn anything between Rs 93,500 to Rs 735,326 depending upon experience. The perks of this job are that they get to work with one of the most important parts of the manufacturing process (the machines).

SKILLS:
* Good in technical work
* Should be able to work quickly during an emergency
* Good in coding
* Ability to handle heavy equipment.
* Ability to read and understand technical manuals.
* Ability to work independently.
* Ability to multitask.
* Good communication skills.
* Have good knowledge of mechanical devices.

CHALLENGES:
Work can get repetitive. Working with heavy machines can sometimes be dangerous.

DUTIES:
Entry-level operators load materials, such as blocks of titanium, steel, aluminum, or plastic, into CNC machines to be shaped. They calculate the amount of material to be fed into the machine, and make adjustments to the operating speed based on vibrations and sounds that may indicate a malfunction. Upon completion, an operator inspects the fabricated part to make sure that it matches specifications. Operators are responsible for cleaning and maintaining equipment, and often operate multiple machines.
Imran Syed, General Manager of Printing Operations says, “A machine operator is responsible for running the machinery, making sure they run at optimum speed, ensure minimal wastage occurs. They also need to plan for the labour required to help the machines function as well as allocate necessary materials. They will have to see to it that there is optimum output and minimum wear and tear. It is basically an amalgamation of ideas and experience.”

TRAINING REQUIREMENTS:
Aspiring CNC operators who have  attained a high school diploma or equivalent are eligible for entry-level
work. Some companies provide on-the-job training, while others participate in formal apprenticeship
programs in conjunction with community colleges and technical schools. Apprenticeships might last up to four years and combine hands-on experience with classroom courses. Individuals can learn skills through certificate or associate’s degree programs in machine or manufacturing technology. Relevant coursework covers blueprints, computer-aided design, machining principles, and metals.

INSTITUTIONS:
Sree Krishna Groups Institute of Heavy Equipments
Course : Certificate Courses in JCB, Crane, Forklift, etc.
Duration: Depending on Course
Website :http://sreekrishnagroup.com/index.php
Laxmi Institute Of Heavy Machineries
Course: Courses in Crane, operation, Earth Moving Equipments Operator, Forklift Operator.
Duration: Self- Paced
Website: http://www.laxmicranes.com/institute.html
ALT Training College
Course: Diploma in Sewing Machine Operator
Duration: 1 month
Website: http://www.alttrainingcollege.com/
Central Tool Room and Training Centre
Course: Certificate Courses in Machine Operation (CCMO), CNC Machining
Duration: 1 year
Website:http://www.cttc.gov.in/

LAB ASSISTANT
If gaining more knowledge on the job or staying in the lab and doing research all day sounds like your dream job, then being a lab assistant is made for you. Lab assistants prepare and test specimens, keep records and maintain lab equipment and tools. Analyzing substances from human bodies to determine whether illness or disease is present is one of their jobs. Most lab assistants work in hospitals, physicians’ offices, private labs, research organizations or clinics. Although no college degree is required to become a lab assistant, employers typically hire candidates who possess a combination of formal academic training and practical experience. However, most employers prefer to hire applicants who hold at least an associate’s degree in applied science, medical laboratory science or a related field from a community college or vocational or technical school. Lab assistant education requirements include a strong knowledge of biology, math, chemistry and lab procedures. The demand for lab technicians will grow due to the aging population’s need for healthcare, which requires lab tests and procedures. Under the supervision of lab technicians, medical technologists or pathologists, lab assistants collect, analyze and test blood and other bodily fluids and tissues. They perform tests to check for parasites, bacteria, microorganisms, infections and other medical problems. They may interpret test results to diagnose diseases and medical conditions. Lab assistants also maintain lab equipment, order supplies and equipment, log specimens and record test results. A lab assistant can earn anything in between 72,000 to 170,000 depending upon experience, company and sector. Lab assistants can get jobs in various places. Some of them include pharmaceutical, diagnostic and technology companies, hospitals, school and college labs.

SKILLS REQUIRED:
* Attention to detail
* Analytical skills
* Organized
* Understanding of basic calculations and measurements

DUTIES:
As time progresses, lab technicians are completing a greater number of tasks that previously would have been performed by highly trained chemists. Technicians are responsible for monitoring chemical processes and testing products as part of quality assurance. Under the supervision of chemists and other team members, they perform repetitive lab activities, such as setting up lab equipment and preparing chemical solutions. They also conduct tests, interpret and analyze data, compile results, prepare reports, and present their conclusions.

CHALLENGES:
Involves exposure to chemicals, body fluids or high voltage apparatus. A lab assistant must have a basic degree in a science related field or in the subject in which the lab specializes in. Degrees can be attained for courses like Medical Laboratory Technology (for medical labs), BCA (for IT/ Computer labs).

INSTITUTIONS
Santosh College of Medical Laboratory Technology Course: Bachelor in Medical Laboratory Technology (BMLT) Duration: 3 & ½ years
Website: http://www.maharaji.edu.in/admission.html
Aditya Institute of Technology
Course: Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT)
Duration: 3 years
Website: http://aitdelhi.in/Christ University
Course: Bachelor of Computer Application
Duraton: 3 years
Website: http://christuniversity.in
Amity Institute of Forensic Science
Course: B.Sc (H) Forensic Science
Duration: 3 years
Website: http://www.amity.edu/aifs/

INSTITUES ABROAD OFFERING COURSES
Austin Community College
Courses in the fields of Biology, Chemistry and Computers.
CUNY York College
The Clinical Laboratory Science Program has been structured to provide students with an education that encompasses liberal arts and basic science requirements.

COMPUTER HARDWARE ENGINEER
Interested in solving complex problems? Want to make new discoveries in the fields of science and technology? Then a job as a computer hardware engineer is something to consider. A Computer hardware engineer is a person who designs, develops and tests computer parts or computer related parts such as keyboards, printers, computer chips, circuit boards and routers. Their expertise lies with the physical parts of computers and computer systems. Often referred to as hardware engineer, he or she oversees the manufacture and installation of computer systems, servers, chips and circuit boards as well as peripherals including keyboards, routers and printers. A computer hardware engineer’s job includes design, development and testing of computer hardware. A computer hardware engineer can earn something in between Rs 96,000 to 480,000 per annum depending upon the experience, company size, etc. One of the major perks of this job is that you get to use the latest computer technology.
Mr. Vishal Parekh, Marketing Director, Kingston Technology – India says, “People interested in computer hardware have a natural edge in PC and Peripheral sales and IT/Tech support. Along with soft skills, there is a niche requirement for understanding the products and their practical application in today’s market. However, that is not all. With their learning and experience in research, design, product, test computer systems, components and market, they can even attempt careers fields like product management, product development, product testing”

SKILLS REQUIRED:
* Knowledge of computer equipment
* Analytical skills
* Understanding of electrical circuitry
* Creative thinking

CHALLENGES:
With the increasing number of engineering graduates, the job market is becoming competitive. Computer hardware engineers also have to keep up with the changing computer technology and innovation.

JOB PROSPECTS:
The increasing use of computers, laptops, mobiles, etc. has led to an increase in jobs for computer hardware engineers. Computer hardware engineering jobs are expected to grow by 7% by 022.
Most of the hardware development is needed to keep with the changing software development.
“It’s a good career as long as you have determination and the brains to work accordingly. You need keep up with the latest tech in the market and suggest accordingly. Jobs are plenty but you need to prove that you have that spark in you,” says Christopher Mascarenhas, a freelancer who deals with software, hardware and web development. “An ideal computer hardware person has scope to work for hardware products and even services. Though the possibilities to grow depend on the company and brand value, the person has enough expertise to multitask on field and on desk. With a more diverse experience in their career, their options to grow are broader.” says Mr. Vishal.

INSTITUTIONS:
Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT- M)
Course: Bachelor of Engineering
Duration: 4 years
Manipal Institute of Technology
Course: Bachelor of Engineering
Duration: 4 years
Thapar University, Patiala
Course: Bachelor of Engineering
Duration: 4 years
National Institute of Technology, Warangal
Course: Bachelor of Engineering
Duration: 4 years

INSTITUES ABROAD:
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Courses in computer engineering such as Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Computer Science and Engineering
Stanford University
Covers topics like – artificial intelligence, computer engineering, bio-computation and much more.
Harvard University
The School of Engineering and Applied Sciences offers a computer science concentration as part of its undergraduate course offerings.

 

Volume 5 Issue 8