#Japan #Battery Maintenance #Nikken Total Sourcing #Toyota City #Toyota Tech Center

Nikken Total Sourcing Launches Toyota Tech Center

Nikken Total Sourcing, based in Ota City, Tokyo, is pioneering efforts to develop talent specialized in the maintenance of automotive and battery production facilities with the upcoming opening of the 'Toyota Tech Center' in April 2025. The center is set up to provide specialized training aimed at addressing the labor shortage of skilled technicians in these sectors, particularly in the maintenance of production equipment.

In recent years, the automotive industry has been undergoing what is termed the 'CASE revolution,' characterized by four major technological trends: Connected, Autonomous, Shared & Services, and Electric (CASE). This evolution is often described as a transformational period occurring once every hundred years. As the industry adapts, challenges arise related to the shrinking workforce due to Japan's declining population. The necessity for automation and new skills in manufacturing processes is crucial, leading to a pressing demand for skilled labor.

According to a survey conducted by the Japan Plant Maintenance Association, a staggering 71.2% of companies reported a shortage of personnel in maintenance roles. Furthermore, about 30% of technicians engaged in equipment maintenance were found to be over 50 years old in 2022. This aging workforce raises concerns about an impending shortfall of experienced professionals, exacerbating the existing challenges.

The Toyota Tech Center aims to counter these issues by providing robust training programs delivered by seasoned instructors. The training will cater not only to beginners but also to those looking to refine their skills in practical settings. Programs will include theoretical coursework covering foundational maintenance knowledge, hands-on training using various equipment and components, and practical exercises in measurement techniques, advanced control using PLC units, and welding practices—all tailored for the automotive and battery production sectors.

By establishing this facility in Toyota City, a hub for the automotive industry, Nikken Total Sourcing expects to efficiently fulfill the needs of surrounding automotive enterprises while nurturing a workforce equipped for the challenges of modern maintenance.

Overview of the Toyota Tech Center

• - Name: Toyota Tech Center
• - Location: 1-2-2 Maeyama-cho, Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, 471-0828, Japan

Purpose and Future Developments of the Center

Nobukazu Hattori, the center director, emphasizes the significance of this initiative: "With the ongoing population decline in Japan, the automotive and battery sectors are increasingly relying on automation. This shift necessitates a new breed of skilled workers focused on equipment repair and maintenance. The Toyota Tech Center will serve as a flagship facility for training talent in these fields, ensuring we meet the burgeoning demand for qualified personnel."

The center aims to enhance training methods, integrating curriculum improvements and standardization across all Nikken facilities nationwide. This initiative will reinforce a skill development framework and produce qualified technicians who can thrive in the automotive and battery industries. The experience gained will be invaluable in training instructors, ensuring that training standards remain high throughout the organization.

Comments from Trainees

• - "Having previously worked in a different industry, I felt limited by the skills I could acquire. When I learned about the shortage of maintenance personnel amidst advancements in AI and automation, I decided to enroll in this training to pursue a new career path. After completing the program, my goal is to excel at my assigned tasks and obtain certifications to expand my job prospects; ultimately, I aspire to teach those who are just starting out."

• - "Before joining, I worked in manufacturing and recognized the growing automation in Japanese industries. I wanted to contribute to the craftsmanship through maintenance. The training has instilled in me safety awareness and maintenance knowledge, which I plan to apply in my career as a technician to serve society effectively."

About Nikken Total Sourcing

As a ‘human capital creation enterprise,’ Nikken Total Sourcing transcends industry boundaries, recognizing diverse talent as valuable human capital. We aim to foster potential through innovative human resource solutions, creating value for individuals, companies, and society at large.

Company Overview

• - Established: April 1981
• - Headquarters: Nishikamata, Ota City, Tokyo
• - Represented by: Koji Shimizu
• - Business Scope: Comprehensive human resource services (outsourcing, staffing, and recruitment)