Why is There a Need for Practic-Tech (PT)?
In a job market undergoing a transformation, which is expected to change even more under the fourth industrial revolution, there is a shortage of first-rate workers in PT – namely, applied technology vocations, and in particular machining, electrical wiring, and construction, that rely on technical knowledge and practical skills. Technical education for young adults over the age of 18, including vocational training and practical engineering degree programs, has not kept up with the changes taking place in the world of employment.A problem exists in the higher education system which is supposed to produce PT workers. The components of that problem: the unappealing image associated with PT professions, curriculam that are not in step with the 21st century and employer's requirements, a lack of coordinated public policy, and little support and involvement on the part of employers, social organizations and philanthropy. Graduates of technical colleges and trade schools lack knowledge and skills that are relevant to today's job market and, consequently, industry, commerce and services are adversely affected.
The training and learning methodologies used at the technical colleges and trade schools therefore need to be revised and employers have to be more involved. The image of PT professions in Israel also needs to be upgraded. These steps will lead to improved knowledge and skills among technical college and trade school graduates and enable them to integrate into jobs that are consistent with their skills and relevant to their education.
Nonetheless, even if technical college and trade school students in Israel graduate with tools and skills that facilitate their quick and effective integration into the job market, the expected pace of the changes in the world of employment, in general, and in PT fields, in particular, is likely at some point to create a new gap between their skills and the market's requirements. For that reason, the Beyachad Foundation wishes to build and implement modular models in the technical education programs – ones that will lay the foundation for incorporating lifelong learning methodologies in Israel's economy, ensure professional development, and update workers' skills in a way that secures their relevant and productive employment in the field over time.