March 21, 2025
From theory to practice
During the tour, the students were introduced to three different divisions of Atlas Copco Group: Airtec, Portable Air and Oil Free. In the Airtec smart factory, they were blown away by how engineers and operators work together with robots, cobots and AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles). In the Portable Air division, they saw first-hand how the assembly of mobile compressors such as the E-air (electric compressor) is done.
At the Oil Free Air division, an assembly workshop was scheduled. The students learned by doing what a method engineer must do to ensure good cooperation on an assembly line. Within each division, they also had the opportunity to talk with specialized manufacturing engineers who immersed them in their jobs and challenges.
Besides a tour of the plant and workshops in the divisions, networking with Atlas Copco colleagues was also possible during lunch at Atlas Copco's sports fields, where the company has its own chalet. This is a café where drinks can be had after sports or where company parties are organized. The students could ask all their questions about what it is like to work at Atlas Copco Group and whether the Swedish mentality of the parent company is also felt on the Flemish shop floor. There was also a cobot setup at the chalet, which students could test.
Investing in the engineers of the future
For Atlas Copco Airpower, Manufacturing Day is more than a one-time event. "We want to lead in our industry and inspire young talent for a future in the industrial world, a world full of technology and science. We invest in the children and youngsters of today in many ways to give them a chance to become the engineers of tomorrow. For example, we host annually our Techno Ninjas events to give kids a taste of STEM. Our Manufacturing Day is a way to engage students, and share our expertise and know-how with them" said Alain De Dauw.
