The categories of technicians and higher technicians required by Irish manufacturers are those emerging from:

Certificate and diploma courses in all the Institutes of Technology

Certificate and diploma courses in disciplines such as mechanical engineering, electronics and manufacturing engineering

Part-time studies in these disciplines and employee up-skilling through in-service training and development are further important sources of technical skills

The manufacturing technology technicians emerging from the Task Force initiatives will also contribute valuably to the spectrum of skills

PLC courses in technology, electronics and manufacturing give important introductions to relevant knowledge/skills

FAS training programmes and apprenticeships qualifying craftsmen are important sources of key skilled employees