More than twenty people are set to take part in a new welding course at Bath College, thanks to funding from the West of England Combined Authority.
Metro Mayor Dan Norris and Ian Penney, Welding Lecturer | Photo © Freia Turland
Metro Mayor Dan Norris, who is responsible for skills and training across the region, met learners taking part in the weekly hands-on training course during a visit to the Somer Valley Campus in Radstock on Thursday 1st December.
The welding course, which is being funded with an £80,000 grant, is taking place in the college’s fully equipped workshops and is taught by lecturers with a combination of over 30 years of industry experience.
Mr Norris learnt how welding is a key skill that can be transferred to an array of different industries such as metal fabrication, construction, mechanical services, shipbuilding, pipeline installation, and beyond.
At the end of the course, participants will go away with key skills they need in the professional welding industry, a CSCS card which proves they have the appropriate training and qualifications to work on construction sites, and a guaranteed interview with a West of England employer, including firms such as EDF Energy.
Speaking at the launch, the Metro Mayor said: “The West of England has always been an engineering powerhouse and I’m sure Brunel himself would have been delighted that we are still training up the welders of tomorrow.
“Skills and training are a really important part of my role as Metro Mayor. That’s why I’m proud to launch this £80,000 West of England welding programme fully funded by my West of England Authority.
“The region needs more welders, pipe fitters and technicians and it’s a good skilled job for people to gain.”
