CAD Training Prepares Gateshead Students For Apprenticeships

A partnership between a college in Gateshead and Ford Engineering has been launched in a bid to plug the industry skills gap and provide hands-on CAD training for young people.

Gateshead College and Ford Engineering have teamed up to offer a six-month traineeship preparing young people with an interest in engineering with the skills necessary for starting an apprenticeship in the sector.

Students will be trained in a range of skills, including how to prepare and use milling machines and lathes, as well as how to produce drawings using CAD software.

The partnership, which was outlined last year, has now come into force and 32 new recruits are enrolled on the course.

Deputy principal at Gateshead College Chris Toon said that the scheme is designed to help boost the North East’s engineering community, building a stronger and more productive workforce, drive business growth and protect companies against future skills shortages.

“This is one of a number of ways we are supporting these industries by working in partnership with employers and key industry professionals across Europe to introduce more people to STEM careers and subjects,” he added.

Meanwhile, chairman at Ford Engineering Geoff Ford MBE said that to overcome the current chronic skills shortage and protect the future of the region’s businesses, the development of the next generation of skilled workers must be nurtured.

The college and Ford Engineering have a longstanding relationship, with the college running apprenticeships at the company’s sites throughout the region and managing a project to upskill the firm’s employees.