Economy Minister Dr has announced £2million
for skills development in the advanced manufacturing sector to
help it grow, innovate and compete.
The UK Government funding is part of the overall £150million
Enhanced Investment Zone (EIZ) for Northern Ireland and follows a
successful small skills pilot that has already demonstrated
strong impact for businesses. Further announcements and the
formal launch of the Enhanced Investment Zone are planned for
later in the year.
The £2m programme for 2026/27 will work with industry to identify
and develop the skills needed to boost productivity and growth in
the advanced manufacturing sector. It is expected to deliver
over 400 Level 3 – 7 qualifications in broad areas of
engineering, core sciences, digital and business (including
leadership and management). It will also provide targeted
support to businesses, helping them improve productivity, adopt
new technologies and compete more effectively.
The Minister made the announcement at Plaswire, a
circular-economy manufacturer, specialising in the recycling of
wind-turbine blades, who benefitted from the EIZ skills pilot
programme.
Minister Archibald said: “The skills pilot my
Department has delivered has already supported 30 SMEs to develop
the skills to support their business and improve
productivity. It is great to be here at Plaswire to hear
more on the impact this is already having for businesses
here.
“This further £2 million investment in advanced
manufacturing skills builds on this strong start and ensures more
companies right across the north can benefit. It marks the next
phase of delivery for the EIZ, with further investments to be
brought forward over the coming months as the programme gathers
pace.
“This programme is about backing our Advanced
Manufacturing sector to grow, innovate and compete. By
working with industry, colleges and our partners, we are helping
businesses boost productivity and build the skills they need for
the future.”
Northern Ireland Office Minister said: “This advanced
manufacturing skills pilot, delivered through funding from the UK
Government for the Enhanced Investment Zone, is a great example
of the UK Government and Northern Ireland Executive working
together to support Northern Ireland's businesses and people.
“This latest investment will help develop essential workforce
skills, providing businesses with the skilled employees essential
for their success and ensuring that Northern Ireland's strong
advanced manufacturing sector continues to thrive.”
Andrew Billingsley, Plaswire CEO said: “Advanced manufacturing is
evolving fast, and the skills investment announced today gives
companies like ours the talent pipeline we need to scale. The
support we've received from Belfast Metropolitan College through
the AME Booster has already helped us strengthen our capabilities
and boost productivity. Plaswire is a global leader growing
rapidly across wind and aviation circularity, and this investment
ensures more firms across the north can innovate, compete and
create high value jobs.”
