A NEW manufacturing and automation unit opened at Trafford College on February 4.

It was opened by Graham Wardlow, managing director, UK Operations of Magnesium Elektron, and a champion for the Greater Manchester Manufacturing Champions Network,

“We need first class learning opportunities delivered by first class educational establishments to train people with the skills that industry needs.

"It’s great to see that Trafford College has continued to invest and raise the bar with this new Advanced Manufacturing and Automation Unit which will give students and apprentices the skills they need to succeed.” said Mr Wardlow.

The £330,000 unit has the latest in robotics equipment, pneumatic and electrical automation technology.

“Not only will our new training unit provide learners with cutting edge skills, it will provide businesses in the region the skilled personnel they need to thrive.” said principal, Sir Bill Moorcroft.

In addition to industry leaders, there were three special guests at the launch, three apprentices training with Trafford College and leaders in their field:

• Harry Wardle, an engineering Apprentice with Manchester University.

• Freya Johnson, a Kellogg’s apprentice.

• Thomas Linaker a Rail Technician with Siemens.

“It’s great to have this equipment at Trafford College,” said Freya Johnson: “it will really help me in my training and I can learn new skills in the unit and then apply that knowledge at Kellogg’s.”

Mr Wardlow was at Trafford College to chair a meeting of the GM Manufacturing Champions Network on “Addressing Your Skills Challenges.” The packed meeting saw industry leaders including Tim Monaghan, MD of Diodes Incorporated, lead a discussion about the challenges of managing change and skills development.