How will channel partners and MSPs train employees to become experts in robotic process automation (RPA)? Some clues are emerging from UiPath, which is partnering to open multiple RPA training centers.
The latest example: UiPath is partnering with the Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board and the ABP School of Automation to drive an Ireland-based RPA education effort.
Students in the region will learn how to build RPA software assistants that automate repetitive tasks. A similar program launched in Scotland in 2020. UiPath's Academic Alliance program is driving the expanding education effort.
The Ireland pilot will see 30 learners undertake an 18-month traineeship offered by the Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board. The pilot is open to anyone 16 years of age or older, including those on social welfare.
RPA Software Market Forecast, Growth
RPA software allows businesses to write code and bots that rapidly automate manual tasks across multiple departments — from IT service desks to HR, finance, customer support and more.
Demand for RPA software is accelerating; global RPA software revenue is projected to reach $1.89 billion in 2021, up 19.5% from 2020, according to Gartner. Moreover, nearly half (48 percent) of businesses plan to increase their RPA investments from June 2020 through June 2021, according to a Forrester Consulting report commissioned by UiPath.
RPA software providers are working hard to drive, manage and monetize the market growth. UiPath launched a successful IPO in April 2021, and recently inked a global distribution partnership with Ingram Micro.
Meanwhile, multiple RPA conferences and educational events are on the horizon. Examples include:
- May 2021: Blue Prism World 2021
- May 2021: Microsoft Build 2021, which will likely feature Microsoft Power Automate Desktop;
- June 2021: UiPath DevCon 2021
UiPath RPA School: "Democratizing the Skills of the Future of Work"
Meanwhile, UiPath continues tp ramp up the RPA education efforts in Europe.
In a prepared statement about efforts in Ireland, Mark O’Connor, public sector director, Ireland at UiPath said:
“We’re supporting the launch of the School of Automation in Ireland to help fill a genuine need for democratizing the skills of the future of work. This is a unique, growing initiative to train and upskill students to create software robots that are becoming ubiquitous in the workplace. UiPath is committed to providing greater access to automation technology that is fundamentally shifting how innovation occurs. This initiative empowers Ireland’s workforce to compete in the global technology sector.”
Added Paul Patton, director of further education and training at Limerick and Clare education and training board:
“We are delighted to partner with School of Automation to deliver robotic process automation training. This traineeship is responding to changes in the way we work, learn and do business and will prepare employees for the future as the world of work is transformed by megatrends such as globalisation and digitalisation.”
