Kettering-based Snap-on Industrial leads the way in engaging with young people to promote manufacturing careers through sponsorship of WorldSkills London 2011
Snap-on Industrial, a global manufacturer of tools and diagnostic equipment announced on Friday August 19 that it has signed a contract to sponsor WorldSkills London 2011, the world’s largest celebration of vocational talent.
Snap-on’s products include hand and power tools as well as tool storage and diagnostics. The company also has a diverse service offering and including software development.
Industry skills are close to the heart of Snap-on’s business. The company has a thriving Excellence in Education programme which supports vocational training institutions across the UK through providing equipment.
At WorldSkills London 2011 Snap-on is now a presenting sponsor of the Automotive Technology competition and be providing a substantial amount of tools and equipment from across the Snap-on portfolio at the WorldSkills finale at ExCel centre in London in October.
Snap-on is also supplying equipment for the Aircraft Maintenance, Auto Body Repair and Poly Mechanics competitions and has joined forces with Honda for the ‘Pit Stop Challenge’ where visitors can try their hand at wheel changing under timed motorsport conditions.
150,000 visitors are expected at the ExCel centre over the four days of the final WorldSkills London 2011 competition from October 5-8. These visitors will witness approximately 1,000 Competitors from more than 50 countries/regions competing over 46 skills areas. The largest skills area is that dedicated to manufacturing and engineering skills.
Following the announcement that Snap-on would be official sponsors at this year’s WorldSkills event Ian Brook, director of Snap-on, said: “We are delighted to be sponsoring WorldSkills London 2011, which fits perfectly with our Excellence in Education programme that supports vocational training establishments throughout the UK with the best tools and workshop equipment.”
Speaking of the need to promote manufacturing and engineering as a career destination Mr Brook continued: “I believe that WorldSkills will provide our [Britain’s] young people with an unrivalled opportunity to gain inspiration and insight into the vast range of worthwhile skill-based careers available today.”
