New Alliance Formed to Avert Disaster

A new alliance of engineering and manufacturing firms has been launched in Scotland to
avert looming “economic disaster” and grasp an “Industrial Revolution sized opportunity”
worth hundreds of billions of pounds. Last month, a Scottish Engineering report warned that
the Scottish economy was facing severe economic impact due to the skills crisis and urged
instant remedial action.
The Enginuity Alliance, spearheaded by skills charity Enginuity, is bringing together
interested parties from across the sector to share best practice, generate discussion and
influence policymakers on both sides of the border. At the launch event, chief executive of
Scottish Engineering Paul Sheerin said: “Billions of pounds are at risk if the sector cannot
supply skilled people to service the needs of major projects.”
More information https://enginuity.org/the-alliance

Boost for apprenticeships

The University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre has launched an enhanced apprenticeship programme, offering employers flexibility in shaping the learning journey of their apprentices. The bespoke programme will enable businesses to customise their apprenticeships to specific needs through additional modular training options. Employers can select add-on modules at any point during an apprenticeship, in addition to the apprentice’s core curriculum, addressing skills gaps and tailoring development in line with evolving business and industry demands.

More information www.amrctraining.co.uk

Submarine facility opens

Britain’s nuclear submarine patrols will be strengthened by a new hub that brings Government and industry closer together, creating 100 new jobs and supporting apprenticeships across the UK. The Submarine Availability Support Hub (SASH) will improve submarine delivery, boost UK engineering capabilities and help maintain the continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent. Defence Minister Maria Eagle opened the SASH facility in Bristol, which will help deliver the Government’s ‘Plan for Change’ by strengthening security and supporting the mission to kickstart economic growth. 

More information www.gov.uk

Expansion of STEM Engagement Fund

Nearly 2000 pupils will have the opportunity to get a better taste of vocational learning thanks to the expansion of the STEM Engagement Fund in the Black Country and Birmingham. The new financial backing is the brainchild of Michael Orlik and his sons, who have gifted £25,000 to the Training Manufacturing Group (TMG)’s charitable fund in memory of their wife and mum Susan – an advocate of giving young people the best start in education and employment. It means that In-Comm Training, an independent provider of apprenticeships and training, can increase the reach of its programme.

More information www.in-comm.co.uk

NCMT Continues Sponsorship Of UWR

Reinforcing its commitment to fostering talent and innovation in motorsport, as well as in engineering and manufacturing generally, machine tool sales company NCMT will continue its sponsorship of the University of Wolverhampton Racing (UWR) team for the 2025 season.

Building on a successful partnership that started in 2023, NCMT will support the Morgan race car and UWR Revolution 500 EVO race car. The latter was launched in conjunction with British manufacturer Revolution Race Cars on 9 January 2015 at the Autosport International motorsport show in Birmingham. This season, the car will compete in the newly-formed Equipe Sports Prototypes series, a multi-class racing championship for lightweight prototype sports cars.

More information www.ncmt.co.uk