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  • CNC Academy launched to support aerospace sector

    Topics:
    • Employment and skills programmes (including apprenticeships)

    Date published: 8 August 2018

    ADS Northern Ireland has teamed up with Northern Regional College to offer individuals the opportunity to participate in their nine week Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Academy.

    Pictured are (left to right) Robert Hutchinson, ADS Northern Ireland, Ann Williamson, Department for the Economy and Gordon Kane, Northern Regional College
    Pictured are (left to right) Robert Hutchinson, ADS Northern Ireland, Ann Williamson, Department for the Economy and Gordon Kane, Northern Regional College

    Supported by the Department for the Economy’s Assured Skills programme, the pre-employment training will provide individuals with the skills needed to prepare them for work as a CNC operator.

    Launching the Academy, Ann Williamson Head of Employer Skills for the Department said:

    “This new CNC Academy is an exciting opportunity for anyone interested in gaining the skills and practical experience to work in local aerospace, defence and security companies. The Academy will help participants to build their confidence, learn new skills and gain valuable work experience. The Department continues to work with local companies and industry to help employers access the skilled staff needed to expand their business and boost the local economy.”

    The CNC Academy will include five weeks training at Northern Regional College, Farm Lodge Ballymena Campus followed by a four week placement with companies in Greater Belfast, County Antrim and County Down.

    Highlighting the importance of the new Academy, Robert Hutchinson, Business Development Manager at ADS Northern Ireland said:

    “Through collaboration with the Further Education sector and government support we can help ensure our member organisations have access to the talent they need to grow. This Academy will help support local companies by equipping individuals with the skills they need for in-demand Computer Numerical Control (CNC) operators.”

    Gordon Kane, Assistant Head of Department, Engineering and Built Environment at Northern Regional College said:

    “The College is committed to working in partnership with the business community and developing programmes relevant to their business needs and requirements. This Academy is the latest in a series of intensive training programmes we have developed with individual companies which have helped them to recruit the skilled workforce they need.”

    Academy participants will receive £150 weekly training allowance. Further information on the CNC Academy including entry criteria and details on how to apply can be found at NI Direct. Closing date for applications is Tuesday 28 August 2018. Applicants must be over 18.

    Notes to editors:

    1. The Assured Skills programme is a joint programme between the Department for the Economy and Invest Northern Ireland, it helps local companies as well as businesses wanting to locate their business in Northern Ireland to secure the skills they require.
    2. For media enquiries contact DfE Press Office on 028 9052 9604. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07623 974383and your call will be returned.
    3. Follow us on Twitter @Economy_NI

     

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