As the leading trade association for automation suppliers and end users of technology, Automate UK has been working with members Domino and SMC to launch the Clusters in a bid to grow the talent pool in manufacturing and train the next generation of engineers.
Central to the Cluster concept is enabling apprentices in the sector to acquire a broader range of skills through collaborating with other Automate UK members who can provide reciprocal training, networking and team building events.
The creation of a Cluster code of conduct is also part of the programme, as well as working towards a nationally-recognised standard of training – an ‘Automate UK apprenticeship passport’ – providing a one-step accreditation tool for future employers.
The MP visit included: an introduction to Apprenticeship Clusters, an overview of Domino, a presentation on ink development, a tour of the site including production and test facilities and a presentation on how the company is supporting the Factory of the Future.
Mark Gearing, Domino R&D Director – Print Systems said: “We were delighted to welcome Ian Sollom and have the opportunity, together with Automate UK, to showcase the new Apprenticeship Clusters initiative, currently being trialled. As a business we have run a very successful Apprenticeship Scheme for many years and we see this latest collaboration as enhancing further our commitment to early stage careers and training the workforce of the future.”
Peter Williamson CEO of Automate UK added: “As an early leader in our initiative, Domino was an ideal choice to raise further awareness of what we are trying to achieve. Growing our talent pool in manufacturing and facilitating an interest in embarking on a career in the sector are central to our objectives. Already we have held discussion and focus groups and set some Key Performance Indicators to measure our achievements going forward. Securing wider support from government is essential in progressing our national roll-out and we see this visit as key in moving this forwards.”
Ian Sollom MP thanked Domino for hosting the visit and said: “It was fantastic to visit Domino’s facilities in Bar Hill and get some insight into the outstanding work they are doing in the constituency and worldwide. I was particularly impressed by Domino's commitment to skills development and innovation. In particular, through the Apprentice Cluster, Domino are not just giving apprentices careers but skills and a network for life. I hope other businesses and other sectors, both locally and across the UK, adopt this powerful model for training.”
Caption
Domino welcomes MP, left to right: Josie Harries, Apprentice Peter Mizuro, Ian Sollom MP, Mark Gearing, Andrew Clifton, Peter Williamson, Automate UK and Apprentice Cheta Nwandu. (Photo credit: Domino)
