Local businesses in Orkney took up an invitation to visit the Engineering Department at Orkney College UHI to view the facilities, meet teaching staff and learn more about the courses on offer.

The Engineering Department was set up in 2017, as part of the Maritime Department and has a focus on land-based and marine engineering.

The department currently delivers courses to school pupils through the National 5 Engineering Skills for Work Course, as well as to those who have left school through the HNC Engineering Systems, MCA approved Engine Course and, Enclosed and Confined Spaces Training.

Next year, they will also deliver the National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering, which includes modules which have been tailored to suit the needs of local employers.  The department will also look to develop further courses that are appropriate for local employers.  This event was held to gather the thoughts of local businesses on what their needs are now and in the future.

Mark Shiner, Curriculum Lead for Engineering at Orkney College UHI said:

“As we are a fairly new department, we were keen to involve local employers and gather their thoughts on the types of courses they would like to see delivered locally to help them develop their existing staff and attract new staff with the right skills.

“Orkney College is a Credit Rating Body, so that means that when we write short courses, for example on machining or welding, we can supply a course that is given a learning credit rating at a specific level.  So, rather than just doing a non-accredited course, the learner will get a certificate and learning credits.

“It is really important to us that we serve the needs of the local sector and I was delighted with the input we received from those present.  Their feedback will be very useful for us as we develop courses in the future.  It was also useful to make contact with local employers and give them an opportunity to see what training opportunities and facilities are available in Orkney.”

Employers and employees from land-based and marine engineering businesses in Orkney took up the invitation.  Anyone who was not able to come along to the event can contact Mark Shiner on 01856 569 401 ormark.shiner@uhi.ac.ukto discuss their needs and learn more about what will be on offer at the Engineering Department at Orkney College UHI.

You can also learn more by visiting:  www.orkney.uhi.ac.uk/courses/

This event was organised in conjunction with Developing the Young Workforce Orkney.  If any employers would like to be invited similar events in the future, they can contact the team at orkneydyw@uhi.ac.ukto be added to the mailing list.