Attending the opening were 19 visitors from 12 companies, with a mix of students wanting to learn about machining, and experienced Hurco users keen to see the latest technology. Local engineering businesses from the area also wanted to understand how the joint venture between Hurco and Kirklees College might benefit their apprentices.
The training partnership with Kirklees College ensures a permanent base for Hurco to run training classes in a convenient location close to its customer base, and gives Kirklees College a range of machines available for student use, education, cutting trials and demonstrations.
Kirklees College prides itself in its ability to provide engineering apprentices with the type of vocational training that industry requires and, thanks to this technology-sharing partnership, is bridging the gap between the world of engineering and education.
Cliff Hodgkinson, northern area sales manager for Hurco, says: "The open day proved to be a huge success; the makeover to the training facilities looked very professional and definitely made an impact on our customers. We were able to demonstrate the ability of our machines and from this event have already booked up two training courses over the coming weeks. We’re looking forward to doing an increasing number of demonstrations and training days at this facility.”
