Engineering zone to open at City of Wolverhampton College

The state-of-the-art centre would operate as a modern manufacturing plant and incorporate Lean Systems into the curriculum delivery, the college said. Students would use new traditional machines alongside a new CAD CAM suite, while a fluid power and maintenance zone will provide the skills required to maintain a modern manufacturing plant.

Local employers had been involved in setting up the engineering zone, to help ensure the skills taught were what businesses were looking for.

Head of Engineering Andrew Cartwright said: “We decided to consult with local employers to ensure the new equipment was relevant to the work being undertaken by students and that the software was industry standard and up-to-date.

“We pride ourselves on our links with local employers and found this exercise very helpful - we took on board everything they had to say, and this will be reflected in the quality of the equipment in the new centre.”

Director of Faculty of Technology Mike Hughes added: “As a City stakeholder we are looking to support the companies in sourcing the skilled workforce to ensure success and growth.

“This innovative approach to teaching engineering and manufacturing skills will support the development of young engineers and apprentices and play a part in upskilling local people to gain employment in this exciting development.”