The value of the global composites manufacturing market is set to skyrocket, particularly as demand for clean transportation continues to increase. In the UK alone, it is predicted to be £12.5 billion by 2030. This growth is largely dependent on a workforce with the appropriate skillset, and TRB Lightweight Structures is investing in the development of its staff to meet the needs of its growing customer base.
TRB takes an active role in funding and supporting individuals with their studies, with 20 per cent of the company’s total workforce in training or attending vocational courses. The Composites Technician Apprenticeship scheme is a key part of this initiative, with two apprentices from TRB already enrolled on this scheme. The course offers a great opportunity to improve knowledge and skills, and graduates earn a BTEC Level 3 Diploma and an NVQ Level 3 in Composites Engineering, as well as being eligible to apply for Engineering Technician (EngTech) status with the Institute of Materials and/or the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).
This apprenticeship has been developed by people in the industry to meet the current and future needs of the composites manufacturing sector. Delivered locally in partnership with Peterborough College (previously iMET), the three year course is a mixture of lectures and practical-based learning – as well as online and distance learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic – and includes project work and research. Combined with competency-based training completed at TRB, this gives individuals the understanding, skills and competencies needed within a composites role. Richard Holland, Managing Director at TRB commented: “The composites industry is growing and is going to continue to do so. Two members of the TRB team are currently enrolled on the apprenticeship, which gives them a great route to a qualification within the industry, and provides them with the skills and knowhow we need within the company to support current demand and future growth.”