Several Sligo companies are involved in a new initiative aimed at meeting their future requirements for skilled engineering workers.
The programme is a collaboration involving IDA Ireland, Skillnets, the Irish Medical Devices Association (IMDA), and the Department of Social Protection alongside participating companies Abbvie, Lindal Group (Litec Moulding), Protek, Ophardt Ireland and Verus Precision.
Monday’s Information Day at the Sligo Park Hotel provided details of the initiative.
People with an interest in, knowledge or experience of Electrical, Electronics, Fitting, Metalwork, Manufacturing Production, Machine Maintenance or Tool Making were invited to attend and hear details of the course being offered.
It will will cover GMP, Basic Metrology, Injection Moulding, Basic Electrics, Pneumatics, Hydraulics and interpreting drawings.
The Engineering Process Technician course, which is being delivered by IT Sligo, is open to applicants in receipt of Jobseeker’s Allowance, Jobseekers Benefit or those signing for credits.
Course participants will retain their social welfare payment. Successful candidates will be offered a paid work placement for three months with one of the supporting companies.
IDA Ireland’s Head of Regional Business Development in the North West, John Nugent, said the IDA was delighted to be involved in the initiative.
“These companies are taking a pro-active, very strategic approach, building a pool of skilled workers to meet their requirements into the future. Course participants have the opportunity to gain a Level 6 industry recognised qualification while successful participants will be offered a paid work placement for three months with one of the supporting companies. It’s a win-win situation for both sides. It’s also a great example of how agencies and companies can work together to build skills capacity for the future.”
“Helping to produce skilled engineers and technicians for the 21st century workplace is one of the core missions for the Institute,” said Professor Vincent Cunnane, President of IT Sligo. “We’re delighted to play a role in this initiative, which will help people with an interest in engineering to expand their skill range in a sector that offers genuine employment prospects.”
If you’d like more information about the Engineering Process Technician course, please email processtech@nullwelfare.ie.