Manufacturing Skills Bootcamps launched in Greater Manchester

Three local training providers have been handed funding by Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) to deliver courses focusing on specific manufacturing skills:

• Rochdale Training will offer a five-week training course in welding and fabrication. The course is designed for people who wish to retrain and gain practical skills to pursue a new vocation
• 3D 360 will offer learners a chance to understand the capabilities of additive manufacturing and Industry 4.0 through courses in 3D printing, 3D CAD skills and digital manufacturing
• Salford City College Group has designed a Production Sewing Machinist course in collaboration with the UK Fashion and Textiles Association, offering learners the skills and knowledge they need to start, or return to, a career in the production sewing industry.

Skills Bootcamps are part of a national government scheme to provide flexible training courses of up to 16 weeks for people aged 19 and over. No previous knowledge in the subject of the course is needed.

The Bootcamps are completely free for individuals looking for a career change, new job opportunities or wanting to upskill. SMEs looking to upskill their current staff through the scheme will contribute 10 per cent of the training costs.

Cllr Eamonn O’Brien, Greater Manchester’s lead for Education, Work, Skills, Apprenticeships and Digital, said:

“Skills Bootcamps represent such an amazing opportunity for our residents and local businesses. The number of Greater Manchester residents employed in the manufacturing sector is estimated to be between 100,000-116,000, representing 7.4-8 per cent of the workforce.

“The scheme is designed to help local people gain new skills to pursue exciting careers and places an emphasis on the technical skills welcomed by businesses across Greater Manchester.”

More information on the Skills Bootcamps scheme is available on the GMCA website.