Automation, AI, and a changing labour market are transforming the warehousing and logistics industry. Technology is evolving. And that means that the work – and how it is done – is evolving too. However, there is an important constant. The need for skilled, competent, and safety-conscious people at the heart of the workforce. And this makes well-trained and knowledgeable Lift Truck Instructors more critical than ever.
As digitalisation and technologies advance, the role of the MHE (Materials Handling Equipment) Instructor must develop too.
The machines aren’t taking over. They’re joining the team
The robots aren’t coming. They are already here. Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs). Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). Robotic picking systems. These are no longer futuristic concepts. They are standard in many warehouses. And becoming part of many more. By 2030, the AI and automation market in warehousing is expected to hit £2.5 billion. With 45% of warehouses using AI.
This could open doors to a 30% boost in productivity. But there’s a catch. Automation requires a skilled workforce to maintain operational safety. And to unlock measurable gains. To realise the benefits, the human workforce needs to be ready to work alongside automated machines. And other emerging technologies. That’s where Instructors are critical.
The unsung heroes of warehouse automation
Instructors are more than just trainers. They’re champions of efficiency and safety culture. They bridge the gap between human and machine. Helping operators understand and safely interact with new technologies. Without them, automation initiatives risk falling flat. Or worse, becoming safety liabilities.
Take the Boeing 737 Max tragedy as a cautionary tale. The company introduced a new system called MCAS (Manoeuvring Characteristics Augmentation System). It was deemed a minor change. Certified pilots did not receive any additional training. But this lack of training led to catastrophic consequences. Aircraft crashes that led to 346 fatalities.
The lesson? Even the most advanced technology and professionals require thorough, scenario-based training when new systems are introduced.
Real-world impact: Case study
A great example of equipping Instructors to lead automation transformation comes from a multinational bottling company. After integrating an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS), the company faced frequent disruptions. Both due to equipment failures and safety incidents.
To address this, they needed to focus on:
- Developing skilled instructors
- Standardising Instructor and operator training content
- Using improved and engaging course materials
- Objectively assessing skills/competency
With RTITB, the company developed a programme that combined hands-on training with engaging knowledge sessions.
The Instructor training included a foundation of automated system expertise and digital skills. It also focused on confidence in delivery, resilience, and adaptability. Softer skills that are what helps training messages really stick with operators.
The ASRS operator training was also designed to go far beyond ‘how it works’. Focusing on optimising system performance, troubleshooting common issues, and implementing preventative maintenance strategies as well.
The RTITB Safety Chain was fundamental to this transformation. This is a unique methodology, that delivers measurable results. It is built on:
- Content: High-quality, relevant training materials
- Confidence: Empowering instructors and operators alike
- Compliance: Meeting legal and safety standards
- Consistency: Standardised delivery across the board
The results were huge. Fewer reportable incidents. Less lost time. Improved hazard identification. Faster response times to issues. Streamlined inventory management. Greater operational efficiency. And a significant boost in employee morale and confidence. Together, these outcomes resulted in better safety and productivity.
What Instructors and employers need to know
Are you an Instructor looking to stay ahead of the curve? Or a company aiming to build a resilient team? This is what you need to know now.
- Training is not optional: Automation doesn’t remove the need for training. It increases it. Instructors must be able to teach traditional MHE skills AND those for advanced systems. And understand the new safety implications of modern technologies.
- Short-term savings can lead to long-term risks: Cutting corners on training in the short term can save time and money today. But costly mistakes, injuries, or compliance issues can arise further down the line. This can lead to human, legal, and financial costs.
- Instructors need new skills: To be future-ready, an Instructor must be a leader and a motivating coach to your team. They must be a tech-savvy and digitally literate communicator. They should be well-versed in data-driven decision making. They should also be an advocate of sustainability and responsibility – issues that matter to your company. This combination gives Instructors the power to engage candidates. To steer safety culture. And to guide teams through change.
- Employers must invest in upskilling: Investing in people is a smart way to future-proof operations. Whether that is through Instructor training programmes, innovative approaches to training operators, managers, or supervisors, or bespoke solutions.
Defining the future of workplace safety with Instructors
It’s clear why the role of the Instructor is key as automation becomes more widespread. A well-trained instructor leads to a competent, compliant, and confident workforce. They help link together the parts of the Safety Chain to help technology enhance workplaces, not endanger workforces.
Remember – the technology may be smart, but it’s real people who keep operations safe.
Are you adopting automation? Talk to our expert team about innovative, safety-focused training and administration solutions.
Author: Alex Samson, Director of Systems and Learning Development, RTITB
As RTITB’s Director of Systems and Learning Development, Alex Samson is the driving force behind RTITB’s digital learning innovations. He’s dedicated to building smarter systems that make training simpler, more engaging, and more effective for everyone — from instructors to operators. Alex combines deep technical expertise with a genuine passion for improving how people learn in the logistics industry.