Manufacturing Advisor to lead curriculum development at Burnley College
4 November 2022
Steve Wilkinson, part of GC Business Growth Hub’s Manufacturing Team, will be working with Burnley College to ensure the next generation of engineers are ready for the future of manufacturing.
As one of the Hub’s specialist Manufacturing Advisors, Steve Wilkinson has spent his career engaging with all manner of manufacturing environments in roles spanning technical R&D, process development, training and mentoring, and strategic development.
His experience has now brought him right back to where it all began at Burnley College, where he completed his Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Mechanical Engineering at the age of 18.
As a newly-appointed member of the Board of Governors, Steve will be assisting the development of the College’s engineering curriculum and how it responds to emerging trends and technology developments. Commenting on his appointment, he said:
“I’ve always had a good connection with Burnley College so I’m proud to be able to give back and add value to the great work it is doing in the field of engineering. The College has always taken a very refreshing approach to engineering provision through its close engagement with businesses in Lancashire and listening to what the industry needs. We’re very much on the same page and I’m looking forward to helping ensure that industrial relevance continues long into the future.”
Burnley College is one of the biggest FE providers of engineering apprenticeships in Lancashire and also offers a range of training courses and qualifications for adult learners.
Earlier in 2022, the College was successful in its bid to become an Institute of Technology and is set to receive £2.2 million in government funding to invest in new equipment and facilities.
Neil Burrows, Assistant Principal at Burnley College, added:
“Burnley College are committed to engage very effectively with employers and other relevant stakeholders to understand the skills needs of the local, regional, and national economy. Steve’s vast experience will enable him to advise and support the College with their commitment to the Skills Agenda.
“With Steve’s proven leadership skills and passion for education and training, he will be integral to setting strategy aligned to the college's values and culture. The College currently works with industry leaders to understand the emerging sector challenges, to develop a curriculum offer which is both academic and vocational fit for purpose, relevant to industry needs and we are looking forward to the contribution Steve can bring to this as part of his new Governors role at Burnley College.”
Steve’s broad skillset and experience is also available to SMEs in Lancashire through the Lancashire Manufacturing Growth Fund. For more information, visit lancashiremanufacturing.co.uk.