---
title: "Capturing silent knowledge to train the next generation of workers"
description: "In the age of Industry 4.0, the preservation of “silent knowledge”, expertise accumulated through years of experience cannot be overstated. Here’s how companies can leverage the unwritten and intuitive expertise of seasoned workers for decades to come."
image: "https://www.beamex.com/app/uploads/2024/08/sami-1024x576.png"
url: "https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/capturing-silent-knowledge-to-train-the-next-generation-of-workers/"
language: "en-US"
translations: {"en-GB":"https://www.beamex.com/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/capturing-silent-knowledge-to-train-the-next-generation-of-workers/md/"}
modified: "2026-08-24T12:32:46+00:00"
---

# Capturing silent knowledge to train the next generation of workers

Sami Koskinen, Director of Digital Transformation, Beamex

[Home](https://www.beamex.com/us/) » [Resources](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/) » [For a safer and less uncertain world](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/) » Capturing silent knowledge to train the next generation of workers

**Have you come across the following situation before? You are working in a factory where a high-pressure boiler is acting up. No one knows what is going on. The instruments don’t indicate anything is wrong. Then over walks this grizzled employee, who puts his hands on the boiler, feels its vibrations, and fixes it by turning a valve.**

If you are in process industries like Oil & Gas, Chemical, Wood Processing, Manufacturing, etc, you’ve certainly met these experts. I call them the “macho men”. They are the ones you see handling wrenches, who know a good thump in the right place can get a machine working again. They know by the vibrations or noise equipment makes if something is amiss. They have developed advanced processes and solutions without being specially trained for them. They are the masters of their fields.

Their knowledge is not just technical skills. It is an understanding of nuanced processes, historical context, and problem-solving tactics honed over decades. With most process industries still adapting to digitalisation, as these experts retire, their knowledge is lost.

The big question then is, how do you pass on this “silent knowledge”?

## Capturing silent knowledge

According to [a survey by the Manpower Group](https://go.manpowergroup.com/talent-shortage) of 40,077 employers in 41 countries, a whopping 75% of employers are having trouble filling open vacancies in 2024.  That’s up from 36% a decade ago. Process industries such as materials, energy, utilities, automotive and logistics seem to be the most affected by this trend. The numbers match what I have seen in my interactions with leading players in these sectors.

Is there a way out of this? Here are my suggestions based on what I have seen first-hand working in calibration.

#### 1) Use digitalisation for knowledge capture and management.

For many of these process industries, in Finland and in other countries too, there are no specific academic studies to train someone to work in these sectors. A case in point is the calibration industry. There are no courses you can take for such a niche and specialized sector. This can pose barriers for less trained workers entering the field. The solution then is to lower the bar. Digitalisation has a role to play here by facilitating the documentation of expert knowledge from seasoned workers.

At Beamex, we have developed technologies that work alongside human operators capturing measurements and digitalising them. This is then stored in our database along with other recordings that go back decades. This historical data can be then used to provide new employees with the expertise of everyone who has come before them.

Additionally, machine learning algorithms can also predict potential knowledge gaps and suggest training or documentation to improve this accumulated knowledge. These methods can be easily adopted by other industries.

#### 2) Be prepared for the industrial metaverse.

The metaverse that a famous company tried to popularise may be dead. But I say long live the [industrial metaverse](https://www.weforum.org/publications/exploring-the-industrial-metaverse-a-roadmap-to-the-future/). Technologies such as AR, VR and Digital twins are unlocking new avenues of growth with the industrial metaverse.

For example, AR and VR can create immersive training environments, allowing new employees to learn from virtual simulations of real-world scenarios. One idea that fascinates me is being able to digitalise the expert knowledge of the “macho men” while using AR/VR to create a digital copy or digital ghost. This digital copy knows all of the expert’s moves. Moves that have been optimised by years of work. Working alongside new employees, these copies share decades of accumulated knowledge and wisdom with a human touch.

Then there is the creation of digital twins of physical equipment that allow people to explore the mechanics of older models or variants ensuring that knowledge about the maintenance and operation of complex machinery doesn’t fade away. This is especially useful for process industries where legacy machinery and processes are the mainstay of operations.

#### 3) Cultivate a culture of learning.

Technology is just one part of the solution, however. An organisation’s culture must support and encourage knowledge sharing. This involves establishing formal and informal mentorship programs where experienced workers can transfer their knowledge to younger employees. The use of technologies and digitalisation also makes it easier for veteran employees to record and transfer their knowledge.

Apprenticeship programmes are another solution, but not in the generic sense where it turns into a cost for the company. Instead, we make apprenticeship a mandatory part of one’s studies and covered by the government. This allows companies to train young students, making them professionals and taxpayers much faster, thus helping pay back the investment.

Finally, we must promote a culture of continuous learning where employees are encouraged to seek and share new knowledge regularly, and we recognise and reward them for their knowledge-preservation initiatives.

## A strategic imperative

Silent knowledge is useful only when it is accurate, has been reliably recorded and can be securely shared. After all, we don’t want an inaccurate technique to be passed down to future employees. A key aspect to ensure this will be for companies to invest in secure methods of data sharing. It will require organisations to [democratise access to data](https://www.beamex.com/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/living-on-the-edge-of-innovation/) *(As I wrote in a previous blog)* to ensure the knowledge is effectively utilised.

Companies should consider the preservation of silent knowledge a strategic imperative. By leveraging technology and democratising access to data, companies can ensure that the invaluable expertise of their workforce continues to drive innovation and operational excellence for decades to come.

What other methods would you use to capture this silent knowledge? Get in touch if you have some ideas and let’s brainstorm new solutions

[Join us on LinkedIn to discuss the article](https://www.linkedin.com/company/beamex)

## About the author

Sami Koskinen, Director of Digital Transformation at Beamex, is an experienced subject matter expert with a successful 25-year track record in process automation, with a particular focus on the pharmaceutical industry. Sami’s passion is using his wealth of experience from various corporate positions to help Beamex customers achieve operational excellence. He holds a BSc in Information Technology.

[**Connect with me on LinkedIn** >](https://www.linkedin.com/in/samikoskinen/)

## You might also find interesting

Press release

### [Beamex North America Calibration Lab Achieves ISO/IEC 17025 Accreditation](https://www.beamex.com/us/about-us/press-releases/beamex-north-america-lab-iso-accreditation/)

This milestone reinforces the Beamex’ mission of delivering calibration services that are accurate, traceable, and performed in accordance with globally recognized best practices.

![Factory workers, calibration](https://www.beamex.com/app/uploads/2025/07/how-europe-exports-trust-antonio-960x640.jpg) Perspective

### [How Europe exported trust through measurement and why that still matters](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/how-europe-exported-trust-through-measurement)

The 1875 Metre Convention created global measurement standards and three key institutions that still govern the SI system and metrology around the world today.

![Mobile workers factory](https://www.beamex.com/app/uploads/2025/07/interoperability-sami-960x640.jpg) Perspective

### [Could interoperability be Europe’s superpower?](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/interoperability-and-europe)

As global industry scrambles to tap into the potential of digital, Europe’s real superpower may lie in one of its most understated strengths, interoperability.

![Mobile worker](https://www.beamex.com/app/uploads/2025/07/building-trust-jan-henrik-960x640.jpg) Perspective

### [How do we build trust in technology?](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/trust-and-technology)

In a world where “zero trust” is becoming the norm, how can we build genuine trust in technology? The answer lies in transforming how we think about trust.

![Beamex Calibration Software](https://www.beamex.com/app/uploads/2025/05/beamex-calibration-software-v2-960x539.jpg) Press release

### [Solving the IT/OT skills shortage starts with better training](https://www.beamex.com/us/about-us/press-releases/itot-skills-shortage-demands-training-rethink/)

“The most important skill professionals can develop today is learning to leverage technology to transform their work,” advises Jan-Henrik Svensson, CEO of Beamex.

Perspective

### [How moving OT to the cloud is redefining operational efficiency](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/moving-ot-to-the-cloud/)

For years, industrial businesses have prioritized IT/OT convergence by bringing IT applications to the factory floor. But we’re now seeing a new trend of companies migrating operational technology (OT) software and tools to cloud platforms.

Perspective

### [IT/OT convergence is facing a critical skills shortage: Education is to blame](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/it-ot-convergence-skills-shortage/)

Learning how to use technology to enhance your work is just as critical. As IT/OT convergence rapidly transforms industries, professionals who do not embrace this mindset will struggle to keep up.

Perspective

### [Mobile solutions – Are process industries using them right?](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/mobile-solutions-in-process-industries/)

Mobile solutions are everywhere, but there are still areas where their use is restricted. These include the complex operating environments of process industries. We have to pay more attention to its security, durability, and design considerations to ensure mobile solutions become an asset rather than a liability.

Perspective

### [Process industries are hesitant to adopt cloud solutions: That’s a mistake](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/cloud-solutions-face-resistance-from-process-industries/)

Cloud technology is gaining momentum across industries, yet many in the process sector hesitate. These reservations stem from decades of established practices, stringent regulations, and the complexities of IT/OT convergence.

Press release

### [Beamex Group leadership team appoints two new experienced professionals in sales and operations](https://www.beamex.com/us/about-us/press-releases/beamex-leadership-team-appointment/)

Leadership team will deliver even greater value to customers with the appointment of two new experienced professionals in sales and operations.

Calibration World Magazine

### [Calibration World Magazine, Winter 2025](https://indd.adobe.com/view/a58d6c69-835c-4ec1-ad5e-f1c25f7a59e5)

Read the Beamex corporate magazine packed with industry trends, company insights and the latest product news.

Article

### [Calibration Excellence Since 1975](https://www.beamex.com/us/50years/)

Beamex celebrates 50 years of providing a better way to calibrate.

Article

### [Built to Last: Inside 50 Years of Beamex, Precision and Disruption](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/inside-beamex-50-year-journey-of-precision-and-disruption/)

Reaching a 50-year milestone is significant in any industry. Especially in the calibration industry where accuracy is everything. For Beamex, it has meant continuous evolution and an ability to anticipate the next big shift in the market. These traits have made the company a global leader in calibration solutions with over 15,000 customers in 140 countries.

![Providing a better way to calibrate since 1975](https://www.beamex.com/app/uploads/2025/01/untitled-design-2-960x640.jpg) Press release

### [Beamex celebrates 50 years of helping the world find a better way to calibrate](https://www.beamex.com/us/about-us/press-releases/beamex-celebrates-50-years/)

In 2025, Beamex is celebrating five decades of calibration excellence. This 50-year journey – from a company founded by four passionate calibration technicians to a global leader in calibration solutions – reflects a continuous evolution guided by an unwavering commitment to precision.

Perspective

### [Best practices for implementing IT-OT convergence in critical industries](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/best-practices-for-implementing-it-ot-in-critical-industries/)

In critical sectors like manufacturing and pharmaceuticals, IT-OT convergence has become a key priority. These industries are realising that integrating Information Technology (IT) with Operational Technology (OT) is not just about connecting systems but also about aligning people, processes and technologies.

Perspective

### [How critical industries can benefit from partial IT/OT convergence](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/how-critical-industries-can-benefit-from-partial-it-ot-convergence/)

Critical industries are under constant pressure to boost efficiency and minimise downtime. One effective solution is partial IT/OT convergence, which provides a strategic path forward while avoiding the risks and complexities of full integration.

Perspective

### [Why IT-OT convergence requires companies to rethink their organisation](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/it-ot-requires-companies-to-rethink-organisation/)

For decades, operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) have existed in separate silos, each with its priorities and practices. Bridging these worlds is no simple task since it can feel risky and even overwhelming.

Perspective

### [Building a Resilient Global Supply Chain through IT-OT Convergence](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/it-ot-and-the-supply-chain/)

In today’s global economy, supply chain resilience has become more critical than ever before. As companies strive to create more efficient, transparent, and sustainable supply chains, the convergence of Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) is playing an increasingly vital role.

Perspective

### [Bridging IT and OT: Advancing Modern Industry with Cloud and Cybersecurity](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/bridging-it-and-ot/)

Operational Technology (OT) professionals in the process and energy sectors have long been cautious about Information Technology (IT) departments encroaching on their territory. Yet, to realise Industry 4.0, integrating these systems is crucial and complex, particularly given cybersecurity concerns.

Perspective

### [Legacy Companies Worry About IT-OT Convergence, they Are Right to be Scared.](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/it-ot-convergence-and-legacy-companies/)

For many legacy companies, operational technology (OT) has long been isolated from information technology (IT). Connecting the two worlds is not easy.

Press release

### [Data-Driven Action: Beamex CEO Calls for Industry 4.0 to Move Beyond Pilot Projects](https://www.beamex.com/us/about-us/press-releases/move-beyond-pilot-projects/)

After years of pilot projects, industries must move beyond experimentation and begin delivering tangible results. This is the perspective of Jan-Henrik Svensson, CEO of Beamex, in his critique of the slow progress of Industry 4.0 adoption.

Perspective

### [Enough with the pilot projects: It’s time to see results](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/enough-with-the-pilot-projects/)

Industry 4.0 holds a lot of promise for process industries, many of whom have embarked on projects to create interconnected, efficient, and intelligent manufacturing. Yet, despite the buzz, many of these innovative projects remain stalled in the pilot phase. Why? And is there a way to remedy this?

Perspective

### [Capturing silent knowledge to train the next generation of workers](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/capturing-silent-knowledge-to-train-the-next-generation-of-workers/)

In the age of Industry 4.0, the preservation of “silent knowledge”, expertise accumulated through years of experience cannot be overstated. Here’s how companies can leverage the unwritten and intuitive expertise of seasoned workers for decades to come.

Perspective

### [Building Trust: How Other Industries Can Guide Hydrogen Safety](https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/how-other-industries-can-guide-hydrogen-safety/)

By drawing inspiration from established sectors like pharmaceuticals and natural gas, the hydrogen industry can implement robust safety protocols and dispel public fears, ensuring a safer and more sustainable future.

## For a safer and less uncertain world

Welcome to our series of topical articles where we discuss the impact that accurate measurement and calibration has on the world and our everyday lives.

[Read more](https://www.beamex.com/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/)

```json
{"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/capturing-silent-knowledge-to-train-the-next-generation-of-workers/","url":"https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/capturing-silent-knowledge-to-train-the-next-generation-of-workers/","name":"Capturing silent knowledge to train the next generation of workers - Beamex","isPartOf":{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/us/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/capturing-silent-knowledge-to-train-the-next-generation-of-workers/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/capturing-silent-knowledge-to-train-the-next-generation-of-workers/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https://www.beamex.com/app/uploads/2024/08/sami.png","datePublished":"2024-08-30T08:04:57+00:00","dateModified":"2026-08-24T12:32:46+00:00","description":"In the age of Industry 4.0, the preservation of “silent knowledge”, expertise accumulated through years of experience cannot be overstated. Here’s how companies can leverage the unwritten and intuitive expertise of seasoned workers for decades to come.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/capturing-silent-knowledge-to-train-the-next-generation-of-workers/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/capturing-silent-knowledge-to-train-the-next-generation-of-workers/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/capturing-silent-knowledge-to-train-the-next-generation-of-workers/#primaryimage","url":"https://www.beamex.com/app/uploads/2024/08/sami.png","contentUrl":"https://www.beamex.com/app/uploads/2024/08/sami.png"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/capturing-silent-knowledge-to-train-the-next-generation-of-workers/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https://www.beamex.com/us/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Resources","item":"https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"For a safer and less uncertain world","item":"https://www.beamex.com/us/resources/for-a-safer-and-less-uncertain-world/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"Capturing silent knowledge to train the next generation of workers"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https://www.beamex.com/us/#website","url":"https://www.beamex.com/us/","name":"Beamex","description":"Just another WordPress site","publisher":{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https://www.beamex.com/us/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#organization","name":"Beamex","url":"https://www.beamex.com/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https://www.beamex.com/us/#/schema/logo/image/","url":"https://www.beamex.com/app/uploads/2022/06/beamex-logo.svg","contentUrl":"https://www.beamex.com/app/uploads/2022/06/beamex-logo.svg","width":358,"height":62,"caption":"Beamex"},"image":{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/us/#/schema/logo/image/"},"legalName":"Beamex Oy Ab","foundingDate":"1975","description":"Beamex is your trusted partner for calibration excellence, providing accurate measurements, reliable data, and traceability for a safer and less uncertain world.","telephone":"+358 10 550 5000","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","streetAddress":"Ristisuonraitti 10","postalCode":"68600","addressLocality":"Pietarsaari","addressCountry":"FI"},"sameAs":["https://www.instagram.com/beamexcalibration","https://www.facebook.com/BeamexCalibration","https://www.linkedin.com/company/beamex/","https://blog.beamex.com/","https://www.youtube.com/BeamexCalibration","https://twitter.com/beamexglobal","https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/beamex"],"subOrganization":[{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#org-de"},{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#org-fr"},{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#org-uk"},{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#org-us"},{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#org-se"},{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#org-nl"},{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#org-ca"},{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#org-cn"}]},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#org-de","parentOrganization":{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#organization"},"name":"Beamex GmbH","telephone":"+49 2161 62115 0","faxNumber":"+49 2161 62115 99","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","streetAddress":"Am Nordpark 1","postalCode":"41069","addressLocality":"Mönchengladbach","addressCountry":"DE"}},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#org-fr","parentOrganization":{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#organization"},"name":"Beamex S.A.S.","telephone":"+33 3 20 04 57 62","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","streetAddress":"270 Avenue de la République","postalCode":"59110","addressLocality":"La Madeleine","addressCountry":"FR"}},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#org-uk","parentOrganization":{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#organization"},"name":"Beamex Limited","telephone":"+44 1455 821 920","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","streetAddress":"Unit 1, Interchange 21, Centre Court","postalCode":"LE19 1WR","addressLocality":"Leicester","addressCountry":"GB"}},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#org-us","parentOrganization":{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#organization"},"name":"Beamex, Inc.","telephone":"+1 770 951 1927","contactPoint":[{"@type":"ContactPoint","telephone":"+1 800 888 9892","contactType":"customer service","areaServed":"US"}],"address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","streetAddress":"2018 Powers Ferry Road SE, Suite 100","postalCode":"30339","addressLocality":"Atlanta","addressRegion":"GA","addressCountry":"US"}},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#org-se","parentOrganization":{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#organization"},"name":"Beamex Calibration Solutions AB","telephone":"+46 70 140 54 10","contactPoint":[{"@type":"ContactPoint","telephone":"+46 72 198 03 23","contactType":"sales","areaServed":"Götaland"},{"@type":"ContactPoint","telephone":"+46 70 140 54 10","contactType":"sales","areaServed":"Svealand"},{"@type":"ContactPoint","telephone":"+46 72 198 03 20","contactType":"sales","areaServed":"Norrland"}],"address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","postOfficeBoxNumber":"24103","postalCode":"104 51","addressLocality":"Stockholm","addressCountry":"SE"}},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#org-nl","parentOrganization":{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#organization"},"name":"Beamex B.V.","telephone":"+31 76 799 8606","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","streetAddress":"Lage Mosten 49-63","postalCode":"4822 NK","addressLocality":"Breda","addressCountry":"NL"}},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#org-ca","parentOrganization":{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#organization"},"name":"Beamex Calibration Solutions Ltd.","telephone":"+1 289 424 2639","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","streetAddress":"2425 Matheson Boulevard East, 8th Floor, Unit 909","postalCode":"L4W 5K4","addressLocality":"Mississauga","addressRegion":"ON","addressCountry":"CA"}},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#org-cn","parentOrganization":{"@id":"https://www.beamex.com/#organization"},"name":"Beamex Measurement Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.","telephone":"+86 4000 888 980","faxNumber":"+86 21 6104 1418","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","streetAddress":"Rm 401, #2 Bldg, 690 Bi Bo Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park","postalCode":"201203","addressLocality":"Shanghai","addressCountry":"CN"}}]}
```