A new Engineering and STEM Virtual Skills Hub has been launched by Sandwell College, giving young people, apprentices and adults clearer pathways into careers in engineering, advanced manufacturing and technical sectors.
The hub brings together courses, qualifications and employer partnerships to support learners and help local businesses upskill and reskill their workforce in key growth industries.
Connecting skills and industry
The launch took place at the Colleges’ Engineering, Science and Manufacturing Centre in West Bromwich, a facility designed to reflect real industry environments and future skills needs.
Employers and education leaders attended the event, led by CEO and Principal Lisa Capper MBE. A keynote from the West Midlands Combined Authority highlighted future regional skills demand, while employers including Drywall Steels Section Ltd and hydraPower dynamics shared the value of work placements and strong college-employer partnerships.
The event also saw an Employer Skills Pledge signed between Drywall Steels Section Ltd and The Sandwell Colleges, strengthening collaboration to help learners become work-ready.
Facilities for future careers
Guests toured the hub and saw demonstrations in specialist areas such as CNC machining and electrical installation, showcasing industry-standard equipment and training environments aligned with modern workplaces.
Lisa Capper MBE said “Our ambition is to immerse young people and adults in real industry environments, helping to future-proof vital technical skills whilst also providing opportunities to upskill and reskill”.
Get involved
Employers interested in working with The Sandwell Colleges to support future talent can contact business.enquiries@sandwell.ac.uk.
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