Economy Minister Dr has welcomed the fifth
Electrical Switchgear Academy in the north west with Vertiv.
Fully funded by the Department for the Economy, this Academy will
see 16 participants undertake eight weeks of pre-employment
training working towards a Level 2 entry level qualification in
Electrical Installation (EAL) for work in the electrical
switchgear sector.
The Academy will include five weeks of intensive training at
North West Regional College (NWRC) and three weeks of on-site
training at Vertiv in Derry~Londonderry, blending college
learning with experience in a working environment.
Welcoming the Academy, the Minister said: “I am delighted
to note Vertiv's continuing commitment to the north west with a
fifth Electrical Switchgear Academy.
“This is an excellent opportunity for those who wish to
reskill, return to the workplace or may be just starting out on
their career journey. With no experience required and the
opportunity to gain industry recognised qualifications for work
in the electrical switchgear sector I would encourage all who are
interested to apply.”
Leo Murphy, Principal and Chief Executive North West Regional
College, said: “North West Regional College is delighted to be
supporting Vertiv with their continued growth in the north west.
Our Assured Skills Academy will provide skills training in
electrical installation and guarantees at least a job interview
for people who complete the training which provides a direct lead
into employment.
“We look forward to delivering this training to participants and
equipping them with the skills they need to excel in their future
career.”
Aidan Lynch, Learning and Development Supervisor, Ireland said:
“We are launching the fifth Electrical Switchgear Academy with
Vertiv, a powerful demonstration of our ongoing commitment to
upskilling in the north west. This programme allows you to gain a
recognised qualification and essential industry experience while
you earn. It prepares individuals with the in-demand skills for
secure, high-quality careers in electrical switchgear
installation with a global electrical switchgear provider.”
Successful applicants will receive £180 per week training
allowance, plus travel and childcare expenses (if eligible) for
the duration of the Academy.
Applicants must be over 18 and be eligible to work in the UK at
the point of application.
Participants who complete the academy will be guaranteed a job
interview for a Junior Panel Wirer position with Vertiv. These
permanent jobs will be based at the Vertiv site in
Derry~Londonderry.
The Electrical Switchgear Academy runs from 2 February to 27
March 2026. Applications are now open and close at noon on 29
December 2025.
More information and how to apply can be found at www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/assured-skills-academies
Note to editors:
1. Assured Skills Academies are pre-employment training courses
run by the Department for the Economy. More information is
available on the DfE website at www.economy-ni.gov.uk/articles/assured-skills-academies
