Technological developments such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), automation, and digital manufacturing continue to change the way humans learn, work, and innovate.
These changes present new challenges that demand critical thinking skills, creativity, communication, and a readiness to continuously adapt. Recognizing that the formation of these skills needs to begin at school age, the Manufacturing Systems Laboratory, Department of Systems and Industrial Engineering, Sepuluh Nopember Institute of Technology (ITS), once again presents FIREz (Facing Industrial Revolution Gen Z). For the first time, this program is specifically designed for Junior High School (SMP) students as an effort to introduce the world of Industrial Engineering while building an understanding of the skills needed to face the future industrial revolution. Through an interactive and applied approach, participants are invited to see that technology is not just something used daily, but can also be a means to create innovations that benefit society.
The junior high school edition of FIREz, held on July 2, 2026, was attended by students from various cities in East Java, including Surabaya, Sidoarjo, and Malang. From the beginning of the activity, participants were invited to build a new perspective on the future through an inspiring session delivered by Prof. Ir. Maria Anityasari, S.T., M.E., Ph.D., IPU., ASEAN Eng. Through the material “Get to Know Future Challenges and Future Skills to Equip Yourself: 21st Century Skills”, she invited participants to understand the importance of having dreams from an early age and preparing themselves to face the ever-changing world by developing 21st-century skills. This idea was then enriched by Reza Aulia Akbar, S.T., M.T., M.B.A. who shared his innovation journey from actively participating in various competitions when he was still in junior high school to becoming a lecturer. This experience illustrates that the spirit of learning and the courage to try new things can be the beginning of the birth of various innovations. Participants were also invited to learn about Artificial Intelligence as a technology that needs to be understood and utilized wisely and responsibly to support the learning process and idea development.
Participants’ learning experiences were enriched through English classes with ITS international students from Pakistan, Tanzania, Kenya, Gambia, and Zimbabwe. The lively discussions provided opportunities for participants to practice their English communication skills while also learning about diverse cultures and perspectives from various countries. These interactions helped them understand that communication skills are a crucial asset in an increasingly connected and collaborative world.
The passion for continuous learning continued in the Manufacturing Systems Laboratory through a hands-on practical session that introduced modern manufacturing technology. Participants tried to create a simple design using Fusion 360 as the first step in the digital engineering process, then saw how the design can be realized through 3D printing technology. They also watched a demonstration of a CNC Router machine that demonstrated the computer-based manufacturing process with a high level of precision. This experience provided an understanding that every product begins with an idea that is then realized through a combination of creativity, systematic thinking skills, and the use of technology. By witnessing this process firsthand, participants gained an understanding of how innovation develops from a concept to a useful solution.
Through this series of experiences, FIREz becomes more than just an introductory laboratory activity. This program is designed to foster curiosity, creativity, communication skills, and innovative mindsets needed to face future technological developments. The implementation of the Junior High School edition of FIREz is the first step for the ITS Manufacturing Systems Laboratory in introducing the world of Industrial Engineering to the younger generation while building a *future-ready mindset* from an early age. By presenting inspiration, international collaboration, and practical technology experiences in one learning program, FIREz is expected to continue to be a space that encourages Indonesia’s young generation to dare to dream, continue learning, innovate, and prepare themselves to face the challenges of the industrial revolution with confidence.
Writer: Andika Putra Pamungkas
Editor: Brian Arga Prasidio Putra
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