Digitalization in skilled crafts and trades

Gerhard Krempl

15. Jänner 2021 • 5 min

Digitalization is everywhere. Instead of letters, we now write e-mails, we read the newspaper digitally on mobile phones, and online shopping is possible around the clock. Digitalization has become indispensable in private as well as professional environments. How does this technological and social change affect the skilled crafts and trades industry?

Particularly promising in small and medium-sized businesses

Small and medium-sized businesses in particular are increasingly realizing that digitalization provides opportunities for companies to stand out from their competition and remain successful. Digitalization in skilled crafts and trades doesn’t just affect the organization of the office. From the company website to online appointments, digital technologies enable new ways of working. Laser technology is a great example of digitalization in progress. In the past, sawing or milling was used, but today the laser is often used as a digital tool.

Digital tools in education

The earlier pupils or students come into contact with digital tools and their use becomes normal, the more prepared they are for modern everyday work. If you compare the syllabuses of apprenticeships from “then” with now, you can see that digitalization is also increasing rapidly in the skilled crafts and trades. For example, laser technology has found its way into carpentry: The laser cutter is used for demanding inlays or for cutting and engraving.

Why do you need a laser cutter in the classroom?

The laser cutter is ideal for implementing digitalization in skilled crafts and trades, more precisely the process “from idea to product,” quickly, easily and safely. The idea is developed digitally, the file is then sent straight to the laser cutter and, in the next step, it is engraved or cut with the laser machine. The laser cutter plays a key role in digital production of drafts, prototypes and models. You can engrave and cut a large number of materials, and quickly and easily develop and adapt ideas and prototypes.

Advantages of the laser cutter in the classroom

In addition to simple digital production, there are other advantages to using a laser cutter in education:

Innovative educational institutions are more attractive to pupils and students
One tool for all geometries
Maximum flexibility of the material
Fine tool
No tool wear
Contact-free processing

Find out more on the advantages listed above

About the author: Gerhard Krempl

Gerhard Krempl has been working at Trotec for over 15 years. As Head of Production, he and his team assemble the Trotec laser machines according to customer requirements, ensure the quality of the finished laser machines and send them on their way to customers around the world. In his many years of experience in a rapidly growing company, Gerhard has trained many new colleagues.