Work has begun on a new 3,800 sq m training academy at UKAEA's Culham Science Centre site near Abingdon. The centre will equip 350 apprentices a year with badly needed technical skills.
Training at the new facility will be delivered by the MTC, replicating its Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre (AMTC) at Ansty Park, Coventry. The centre will be equipped with industry-standard equipment covering a wide range of engineering and technology disciplines. The first intake of apprentices will move into the new building in September 2019.
Paul Rowlett, managing director of the AMTC, says: “Having an insight into tomorrow’s technology gives us the ability to create training programmes and apprenticeships to equip industry with a capable workforce. We are delighted to be working with UKAEA to deliver the OAS training programme. There is a clear synergy and shared vision across both organisations.”
David Martin, the UKAEA’s chief operating officer – himself a former apprentice – says: “Oxfordshire is one of Europe’s biggest areas for science and technology, with 10,000 people employed in these industries – four times the national average. We can only sustain this success if we have more skilled young people coming through, and OAS is a vital part of this skills pipeline.”
