Skills to power the growth of Teesside are being generated at Middlesbrough College, thanks to continued investment.
With demand for electricians outstripping supply – and new standards being implemented in the industry – Middlesbrough College’s expert tutors are helping hundreds of learners to gain the skills they need for the marketplace.
And as exciting developments are set take shape across the area – including the likes of TeesAMP advanced manufacturing park and Middlesbrough snow centre – there is plenty of demand on the doorstep.
Andrew Simpson, Middlesbrough College’s new electrical technical trainer, is part of a team of expert trainers with real industry experience behind them.
Having worked on high profile development schemes across North East landmarks such as Newcastle’s Theatre Royal and Teesside University’s The Curve building, Andrew brings his knowledge to bear in the classroom.
He explained: “I’ve worked as an electrician for more than 18 years, including time as an inspector for the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting, and I really wanted to do something new with my skills.”
Andrew, who even worked on Middlesbrough College’s dedicated sixth form building MC6 before becoming a trainer, is responsible for learners across a wide range of specialist engineering and electrical courses on offer at the College.
He added: “There are so many opportunities in the industry at the moment, and we’re excited to be offering courses that help newcomers and existing electricians to take advantage of those opportunities.
“The College has invested in workshop stations in our STEM training centre which allow learners to practice real installations of domestic and commercial appliances, and testing. It’s exactly the kind of environment that prepares them for the workplace
“Combined with theory-based learning in our classrooms, learners leave us with the right mix of knowledge and skills that employers need.”
Major new regulatory controls – the IET Wiring Regulations, 18th Edition – are coming to the industry in 2019, and Middlesbrough College tutors are busy preparing students.
The statutory regulations impact all electricians who install or maintain electrical systems – and Middlesbrough College’s specialist three-day course gives learners the tools they need to stay compliant.
Andrew explained: “The 18th Edition changes are significant, and our short course is an investment in the future.
“It’s not just trainee electricians and existing workers who we’re helping to prepare, but also engineers and designers who need to know about the changes and where they impact on their jobs.
“Employers will value workers with the necessary qualifications, and getting prepared now is a great way for employees to secure future opportunities.”
Middlesbrough College also teaches the latest inspection and testing techniques – including PAT testing – that are vital to the industry.
And the College’s five-year Mature Experience Worker course is designed to help electricians with hands-on experience, but a lack of formal qualifications.
Andrew explained: “There are a lot of competent electricians who’ve been working in the industry for many years, but for whatever reason never finished an apprenticeship or NVQ equivalent qualification.
“This course is about giving them opportunity to get those qualifications which will help them unlock the next stage in their careers.”
For more information about the courses on offer at Middlesbrough College call
01642 333333 or email courseinfo@mbro.ac.uk.