Zhao Yu, head of a national-level skills master studio at Beijing Automotive Group (BAIC), exemplifies the transformation inherent in China's push for skilled craftsmanship. After over three decades, Zhao evolved from a regular car assembly worker to a nationally recognized skills master. He attributes his growth to the emphasis placed on developing skilled workers by both the country and enterprises.

Recently, China released a guideline to deepen reforms in the building of its industrial workforce, aiming to cultivate approximately 2,000 national-level master artisans, 10,000 provincial-level master artisans, and 50,000 municipal-level master artisans by 2035, thus providing a robust talent base and skill support for the country's modernization drive.

To adapt to the needs of new industrialization, the country will promote modern vocational education and establish vocational schools with international standards, and enhance the lifelong vocational training system for industrial workers to cultivate an urgently needed workforce for the development of high quality productive forces.

Enterprises are encouraged to assume responsibility for developing their workforce. Large enterprises are urged to formulate strategic plans for skilled talent development, establish comprehensive training systems, and engage in public vocational skills training.

In an interview with Science and Technology Daily, Xie Wei, deputy general manager of BAIC, highlighted the significance of cultivating skilled personnel as essential for the company's transformation to high-end intelligent manufacturing.

The company has implemented an innovative apprenticeship program, according to Xie, to establish the master studios and model worker innovation studios, while exploring the "New Eight-Level" skill rating system: apprentice, junior worker, intermediate worker, senior worker, technician, senior technician, special technician and chief technician. This will ensure a skills development pathway for aspiring craftsmen.

"The implementation of the 'New Eight-Level' skill rating system provides a career ladder for skilled workers, thereby stimulating their motivation to keep enhancing skills," said Zhao.

The guideline also proposes to attract more young people to join the ranks of industrial workers by strengthening policy support and employment services, and establishing match-making platforms for colleges and enterprises.