Industry and educators unite to bridge skills gap

A new industry-led drive is helping align skills and training provision with the future needs of North East manufacturers.

More than 25 representatives from industry and education came together at New College Durham for an Advanced Manufacturing Employer Roundtable focused on the changing needs of the region’s manufacturing workforce.

The session explored the roles and skills becoming increasingly difficult to find, workforce gaps restricting productivity and barriers preventing businesses from accessing training.

It also considered how emerging technologies are changing factory-floor operations and the capabilities manufacturers will need in the future.

The event built on the Manufacturing Leaders’ Summit held at the college in April and was designed around small-group discussions rather than presentations.

Employers examined recruitment, retention, upskilling and retraining, alongside opportunities to work with New College Durham through its status as an Advanced Manufacturing Technical Excellence College (AMTEC).

Discussions focused on what industry and the college could develop together, with businesses invited to identify practical contributions they could make during the next 12 months.

Chris Small, director of AMTEC at New College Durham, said: “Our ambition is to be flexible and responsive to what industry and our communities actually need. 

“That means listening to employers, understanding where the skills gaps are and developing curriculum and training that can adapt as technology, roles and businesses evolve. 

“We want our provision to benefit everyone, giving students the skills and experience to progress into rewarding careers, helping businesses recruit and develop the people they need, and creating opportunities for communities to access new industries and economic growth. 

“AMTEC gives us a fantastic platform to co-design opportunities with employers, from curriculum and apprenticeships to specialist upskilling and bespoke training. 

“The more closely we work together, the more relevant and impactful that provision can be.” 

Participants were also asked to identify the most urgent technical capabilities required by the sector, its biggest workforce barriers and the skills likely to become increasingly important.

The roundtable forms part of a wider collaboration between New College Durham and Theo James Recruitment aimed at strengthening links between manufacturing, engineering and education.

Mark Bracknall, from Theo James Recruitment, added: “It was a fantastic event and a real privilege to be part of. 

“I was blown away by the level of conversation in the room. 

“Over 25 leaders in the industry all working together to help bridge the gap between industry and education. 

“I can’t wait to see the next steps and I’m sure this session is only the start of something brilliant!” 

Manufacturing and engineering leaders are also being encouraged to join the free Manufacturing Leaders Community, which provides opportunities to participate in future roundtables and events.

Organisers say the ongoing engagement will enable employers to directly influence skills provision while helping education providers better understand and respond to the changing workforce needs of North East industry.

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