Siemens and Trafford College will collaborate to tackle the North West's engineering skills shortage. Under the scheme students from the region will train at the brand new Centre for Science and Technology, equipped with a Siemens lab containing cutting-edge technology and ‘programmable logic controllers’ which are designed to help young people learn about factory automation.
Sir Bill Moorcroft, Principle of Trafford College said: “Trafford College is delighted to be working alongside Siemens in what are very exciting times for the STEM industry. Trafford College has invested £15M in our new Centre for Science and Technology, and through our innovative partnership with Siemens we are developing the next generation of skilled apprentices.
“We look forward to continuing to work closely with Siemens and employers large and small, to develop the skills needed to grow our economy.”
The partnership is part of Siemens’ successful bid for Employer Ownership of Skills Pilot, which aims to aid employers train young people whilst encouraging further education.
The apprenticeship scheme, which started in September 2013, will run on behalf of its customers and partners that include Bilfinger, Boulting Group, Cleveland Systems, and the Siemens Glass Academy launched with British Glass last year.
Juergen Maier, Siemens Industry Managing Director said: “We are very proud to play such a leading role in boosting the skills of engineering apprentices across the North West, which has the largest manufacturing sector anywhere in the UK.
“By getting directly involved in the education of future engineers we are able to develop the skills industry needs to stay ahead of international competition. This partnership is a vital part of helping create the green industrial jobs of the future”
By the end of their apprenticeships, the students will be qualified to technician level in Siemens’ PLCs and drive technologies. Apprentices will be studying for the BTEC National Certificate in Electrical / Electronic Engineering, followed by day release at Siemens for specific training on Siemens products.
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Siemens is now actively recruiting its next intake of apprentices, and the application window is now open.
