Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, in partnership with Northern Regional College, has launched two new skills programmes for those looking a career in manufacturing and engineering.

‘Introduction to Welding’ will begin on 2 March, and the ‘Production Operatives’ Programme begins on 9 March. The programmes are open to anyone in the borough over the age of 18. The deadline to apply is Monday 24 February. Both programmes will include accredited training including City & Guilds Level 2 Welding Certification, Working Safety Qualification, Manufacturing Processes, and CSR.

‘Introduction to Welding’ is a five-week intensive re-skilling training course, followed by a two-week placement with a host company where they will receive further training and mentoring in a welding role. Participants will be paid travel expenses covering their return journey from their place of residence to the college while in training, and they may be eligible for assistance with childcare costs and support while in training. Participants will also be offered an interview with at least one of the participating companies.

The ‘Production Operatives’ Programme consists of a four-week intensive training course, followed by a two-week placement with a host company. Programme participants will undertake comprehensive training including accredited short courses in Manual Handling; Health and Safety; Reading and Interpreting Drawings; Introductory Principles of LEAN Methodologies; Quality Control; Communication and Interview Skills; and participate in an on-site work placement where they will receive further training and mentoring in a production operative role. Participants will be paid travel expenses covering their return journey from their place of residence to the college while in training, and they may be eligible for assistance with childcare costs and support while in training. Participants will also be offered an interview with at least one of the participating companies.

For more information, to apply for the programmes, or if you are a company and would like to host and train participants, please get in touch at amplify@midandeastantrim.gov.uk or 028 2563 3563.