Bridging the Skills Gap in Defence: How Technology is Accelerating Proficiency

As our team prepares to attend the upcoming Security and Policing expo, we’re reflecting on a recent project with a Ministry of Defence (MOD) where we tackled two significant challenges: reducing time-to-competency in a complex manufacturing process and capturing the expertise of an aging workforce set to retire within 18 months.

The Challenge

The manufacturing process in question is difficult but not necessarily complicated. Historically, it required multiple run-throughs before personnel achieved proficiency. This, coupled with an experienced workforce nearing retirement, posed a dual challenge: how do we accelerate training without compromising fidelity, and how do we ensure critical organisational knowledge isn’t lost?

Our Approach

We conducted an in-depth analysis and identified several solutions, two of which leverage technology to enhance training outcomes.

1. Part-Task Trainer (PTT) – We set the parameters for a platform designed to replicate key hand skills required in the process. The PTT provides a progressive training experience, with an optional hood that can be deployed to increase difficulty and better simulate real-world conditions.
2. Immersive Technology (VR/MR/AR) – After evaluating a range of providers, we identified a system that not only improves the time-to-competency but also offers secondary benefits, such as refining the manufacturing process itself. The immersive solution ensures new trainees meet the necessary fidelity requirements while retaining institutional knowledge from experienced personnel.

Fixed Mastery, Variable Timing

A core principle underpinning our recommendations is fixed mastery, variable timing—trainees must reach a defined level of proficiency, but the time taken to achieve it can vary. By integrating advanced training tools, we allow individuals to progress at their own pace while ensuring they attain the high standards required.

The Outcome

While we can’t share all the details, these solutions ensure that new trainees reach the required proficiency levels faster, retain the invaluable experience of retiring staff, and maintain the high fidelity essential to the manufacturing process. By blending hands-on part-task training with immersive technology, we’ve provided a scalable approach to skill development in defence manufacturing.

We look forward to discussing this and other innovative solutions at Security and Policing. If you’re attending, let’s connect and explore how technology can transform workforce development in your organisation.