Digitalisation in skilled crafts and trades

Gerhard Krempl

15. Jänner 2021 • 5 min

Digitalisation is part of everyday life. Emails are used more than letters, the newspaper is read digitally and online shopping is possible around the clock. Digitalisation has become indispensable in private as well as professional environments. But how does this technological and social change affect the skilled crafts and trades industry? We explore this topic below.

Particularly promising in small and medium-sized businesses

Digitalisation provides opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses to stand out from their competiton and remain successful. Digitalisation in skilled crafts and trades doesn’t just affect the organisation of the office. Digital technologies have enabled new ways of working including websites and online appointments. Laser technology is a great example of digitalisation in progress. Previously, sawing or milling was used but today the laser is often used as a digital tool.

Digital tools in education

The earlier students come into contact with digital tools, such as a laser machine, 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 digitalisation 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 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.