Cisco unveils software-driven manufacturing, partners with Rockwell Automation

US-headquartered telecom gear maker Cisco said that it has launched software-defined manufacturing, and has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rockwell Automation to launch a ‘Digital Skills for Industry’ skilling program.

The program seeks to address the growing skills gap in India’s manufacturing sector, and impart the next-generation of workers with essential digital skills, combining Information Technology (IT) and Operations Technology (OT) curriculum in cybersecurity, networking, the Internet of Things (IoT), data science, artificial intelligence (AI), programming, and automation, Cisco and Rockwell said in a joint statement.

With a vision of exporting goods worth $1 trillion by 2030, India is well on its way to cementing itself as a major manufacturing hub. However, a shortage of skilled workers poses a significant barrier to progress.

TeamLease recently found that by FY27-28, the electronics manufacturing industry is expected to generate 12 million jobs, but a staggering skills gap of 10 million trained professionals persists.

Bridging this skills gap is critical to ensure that India’s manufacturing industry remains globally competitive, efficient, and future-ready, the companies said.

Notably, Cisco and Rockwell Automation signed a pact in July 2024 to close the digital skills gap in manufacturing across the Asia-Pacific region through social impact programs which include the Cisco Networking Academy (NetAcad).

In India, NetAcad has already trained more than 2.2 million students through collaborations with educational institutions and industry partners, according to the joint statement.

“As we navigate the digital-first era, we’re witnessing a significant shift where industries without the right skilled talent risk falling behind. This transformation, driven by AI and emerging technologies, is especially critical for the manufacturing sector,” said Daisy Chittilapilly, President, Cisco India & SAARC.

“We are excited to partner with Rockwell Automation to build a future-ready, skilled workforce that can bring to life new possibilities of digital technologies, paving the way for a smarter and globally competitive manufacturing landscape,” Chittilapilly added.

“While companies are committed to maintaining and even expanding their workforce in this era of automation, simply hiring isn’t enough. A strategic investment in robust upskilling and reskilling programs is essential,” said Dilip Sawhney, Managing Director, Rockwell Automation India.