The International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) and Built Robotics announced a multi-year strategic partnership agreement. The partnership will establish a training program to prepare the more than 400,000 IUOE members to oversee and manage robotic equipment, as well as work alongside autonomously operating vehicles, according to Robotics Business Review.
Built Robotics will provide its guidance system to the IUOE’s International Training and Education Center (ITEC), located near Houston. The ITEC offers a lineup of heavy equipment, mechanics shops, and vehicle simulators. The Built Robotics guidance systems will be the latest technology to be added to the curriculum.
“This is a first-of-its-kind partnership between the IUOE and a technology company, and it will enable our members access to programs and training to keep them at the forefront of skilled craft work,” said James T. Callahan, general president of the IUOE. “We are proud to bring Built Robotics technology to the ITEC and equip our members with the skills they need to be successful in the 21st century.”
The global construction robot market is expected to be $190 million by the end of 2025, according to a report by Infoholic Research, Robotics Business Review reports. Robots in the space include 3D printing robots, demolition robots, bricklaying robots, and autonomous construction vehicles and equipment.
