Four strategies for embracing technology and preparing your workforce for tomorrow. BY BRANT INSERO Are YOU Future READY? or the past 20 years, the industrial manufacturing industry has implemented automation and robotics in its facilities to increase effi ciencies and overcome labor issues, product inconsistencies, and profi t-ability challenges in the face of competition. The commercial cleaning industry is at the start of its hike, and the path looks very promising to implement millions of robots worldwide. The real question is … are you ready? According to a recent ISSA webcast that explored the role of robotics in our industry, we will see three million robots deployed globally over the next 10 years. As we discuss robot-ics with our members and industry professionals, we need to embrace technology and adapt our business operations to take advantage of the opportunities that come with this inno-vation. It is time to get into the growth mindset and stop being complacent. In the 1990s, students, for the fi rst time, could earn their college degree exclusively online. As of 2018, 95% to 98% of public universities and colleges off ered some form of online learning, according to thebestschools.org. This trend will continue and drive demand for more online vocational learn-ing experiences. However, with many trades, it is essential to understand that a skilled worker will not succeed only by taking online courses. An authentic blended learning and assessment process for workers will drive real change and F impact the bott om line for any organization. To help us think about why we need a blended learning approach, we have nearly 40 million cleaning workers globally with many back-grounds, languages, and resource accessibility. Over 40% of these workers have changed jobs in the last year, with profes-sional development opportunities being their top workplace incentive. Over the years, you may have read many articles promot-ing a blended learning approach for adults, primarily focus-ing on kinesthetic and hands-on learning. As we continue to engage our workforce with technology, online learning plat-forms have become a primary source of employee education. Thinking about how technology impacts education and certi-fi cation, here are a few tips to help you become future-ready. Tip 1: Take advantage of digital learning As a word of caution, not everything you read online is true. This may seem obvious, but many individuals use social media apps before asking professionals. While technology has wonderful intent, we must know what is true. Research your answers from credible sources. Digital learning will continue to grow and will soon implement virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). When an organization reduces its operational budget, it often cuts training fi rst. Considering the cost of training and education, how can you become more 18 ISSA Today | March/April 2024