Specialist Mariana Porto Mapelli says that the role of the leader gains even more relevance, being responsible for engaging and preparing teams for digital transformation
Imagine an industrial environment where humans and machines act as partners, combining human intelligence and automation to drive production. This is the future of the technology industry, also called industry 5.0, which seeks innovation without renouncing the essential role of people in factories.
In recent years, much has been said about the adoption of automation, Artificial Intelligence, and the Internet of Things to optimize processes. Now, this new industrial revolution proposes a step further: using technology to value human labor, not to replace it.
“Putting the human being at the center of the processes instead of the ‘machine’, as in the concept of Industry 4.0, guarantees us better business sustainability, more collaboration, process optimization so that there is a more focused focus on human well-being, quality of life, that there is a healthier human-machine interaction“, explains Mariana Porto Mapelli, chemical engineer and specialist in people management and continuous improvement, who talked to the ST-One team about what changes in the lives of workers, leadership and how to stand out in this new reality.
The impact of Automation on the lives of workers
Unlike what was feared in the past, automation should not extinguish jobs, but rather transform them. With machines taking on repetitive and operational tasks, combined with data culture, professionals can focus on strategy, creativity, and innovation.
“When applied correctly, it enhances the human version, as it gives us time to be more creative, more agile, facilitates repetitive routines, teaches us new skills. With the balance of the use of technology, there will be more human focus on strategy, facilitation in decision-making, a better work environment and more employee empowerment, since in Industry 5.0 there is no replacement of the human being, but a collaboration process”, highlights Mapelli.
However, this transition also brings challenges. According to the expert, one of the main ones is resistance to change. “Human beings tend to resist change, so the transition to Industry 5.0 requires well-structured change management. Companies need to invest in training and transparent communication to prepare teams, ensuring that they understand the benefits of technology and know how to use it to their advantage.”
The role of leadership in this new era
The adoption of advanced technologies also requires a change in the way companies manage their teams. The role of the leader gains even more relevance, being responsible for engaging and preparing teams for digital transformation and data culture.
“The leader needs to act as a facilitator in this new model, helping the team to see technology as an ally. For this, transparency and security are essential, ensuring that employees feel confident during the transition”, points out Mapelli.
With increasing digitalization, ensuring worker satisfaction and well-being becomes a challenge for companies. For Mapelli, the key lies in a more flexible and humanized environment.
“Giving the employee an active voice, offering flexibility (whether with hybrid models or adaptable journeys) and investing in training are fundamental strategies to balance technology and humanization”, he recommends. “People management will need to be more strategic and centered on collaboration between humans and machines. Companies that manage to balance technology, well-being and innovation will come out ahead”, concludes the expert.
The skills of the professional in the technology industry
Check out the expert’s tips below for professionals who want to stand out in the job market in this new era. According to Mariana, it will be necessary to develop a set of skills that go beyond technical knowledge. Check:
- Data analytics: Data culture is getting stronger. Therefore, knowing how to interpret information and make evidence-based decisions.
- Understanding automation: understanding how to use collaborative robots (cobots) and Artificial Intelligence to optimize processes.
- Emotional intelligence: dealing with challenges, constant adaptation, and teamwork.
- Interpersonal skills: communicate well, collaborate, and act ethically in the digital environment.
Mariana Porto Mapelli holds a degree in Chemical Engineering from the Federal University of Santa Catarina, with an MBA in People Management from IPOG – Institute of Graduate Studies and Graduation. His work encompasses the coordination of production of multinational companies in the state of Santa Catarina, being responsible, among others, for the direct management of people and leaders, with a focus on operational development.
Service – Press Office ST-One
Responsible journalist: Ana Cunha
E-mail: assessoria-imprensa@st-one.io