China’s Robot Industry Thrives, Creating New Jobs in Engineering and AI
China’s robot industry is experiencing significant growth, leading to the creation of new job opportunities in engineering and artificial intelligence (AI). The expansion of the industry has facilitated the digitalization of production and various aspects of daily life.
Robots are no longer limited to industrial manufacturing; they now serve in fields such as storage and transportation, home appliances, education, entertainment, and emergency rescue. Chinese companies like iFLYTEK have developed robots to serve as teaching assistants in primary and secondary schools, helping students acquire knowledge in AI.
To meet the increasing demand for robot engineers, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security introduced the occupation of robot engineering technician in June 2022. This new occupation requires a highly complex skill set, combining mechanical engineering, electronic engineering, computer studies, sensing, and AI.
Wu Hao, head of operations at a robot industry company, believes that intelligent manufacturing will gradually free humans from labor-intensive and high-risk positions. Human-machine collaborative work is expected to promote the upgrading of production and manufacturing methods.
According to the country’s development plan for the robot industry during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), China’s robot industry has achieved an annual compound growth rate of about 15 percent since 2016. In 2020, the operating revenue of the industry exceeded 100 billion Yuan (approximately 13.99 billion U.S. Dollars).
The development plan highlights that the robot industry will play a crucial role in China’s economic development, people’s lives, and social governance.
As the industry thrives, engineers like Zhang Fuqiang are heavily involved in optimizing the operation of robots. Zhang’s work focuses on fine-tuning the eye-brain coordination of the robots, ensuring precise cutting and welding with an error margin of just 0.5 mm. Together with his teammates, he processes information from vision sensors, performs data analysis and verification, and ensures the smooth operation of mechanical arms along preset tracks.
China’s commitment to developing its robot industry is driving technological advancements and creating opportunities for highly skilled professionals. The industry’s growth not only strengthens China’s global position in robotics but also enables the country to explore innovative applications in various sectors.
The future of robotics in China looks promising, with intelligent manufacturing and human-machine collaboration set to revolutionize the production and manufacturing landscape. As the industry continues to flourish, more job opportunities and innovative solutions are expected to emerge, shaping China’s economic growth and societal development.
