In less than two weeks time, 22 former Vestas workers will be starting a new course at Southampton City College.
The workers are among others who are signed up for a brand new course in aluminium welding, which is the first of its kind in the Solent region.
Apparently, there is a massive shortage of skilled aluminium welders in the south coast’s boat building industry, so future prospects for the pupils could be good.
Yesterday, five of those who lost their jobs at Vestas earlier in the year met with Minister for the South East, Jonathan Shaw MP, when visited the college.
Lindsey Noble, Principal and CEO of City College, said: “City College is pleased help the former Vestas workers so soon after they were made redundant and I hope that by training with us, it won’t be long until they are back in employment. City College is dedicated to providing people from all walks of life with the relevant skills they need to succeed, whether they are school leavers, currently employed or, like these former Vestas employees, have been made redundant and are looking to update their skill set. Our adult learners have a 95 per cent success rate and I am confident that our first influx of welders on the new course will continue this trend.”
It’s hoped that the 16 week course will produce a highly-qualified workforce of welders for the boat building industry.
The courses are hoped to run back to back throughout the year so if it’s something that interests you, get in touch with the college by calling Ken Cast on 02380 724722 or e-mailing kc(at)southampton-city.ac.uk
