Laing O’Rourke, in partnership with Barnsley College and T3 Training & Development, has inaugurated the UK’s premier modern methods of construction (MMC) training facility. This innovative center, partly funded by the Local Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF), aims to cultivate a highly skilled workforce proficient in assembling offsite-manufactured construction solutions. By equipping learners with the requisite technical and digital competencies, the facility will empower them to work with large modular components in a secure environment.
This pioneering facility offers a Level 2 Apprenticeship in Construction Assembly installation, a qualification endorsed by The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE). Its unique training program fills a critical gap in the industry, emphasizing the importance of off-site training to expedite construction processes while ensuring safety and efficiency. With the construction sector facing a shortage of over 250,000 workers by 2028, this initiative is a significant step towards bridging the skills gap and enhancing sector productivity.
Laing O’Rourke’s commitment to advancing modern construction methods spans more than 15 years, recognizing the potential of these methods to create safer, more technical career paths. The new training facility will not only enhance the skills of their workforce but also attract a diverse talent pool to the construction industry. Embracing digital technologies and modern construction techniques is crucial for boosting productivity and fostering rewarding careers in the sector.
David Akeroyd, Principal and Chief Executive of Barnsley College, expressed delight in partnering with Laing O’Rourke and T3 Training & Development to establish the UK’s inaugural Modern Methods of Construction Training Centre. This collaboration aims to equip students with the expertise essential for success in a rapidly evolving construction landscape, promoting sustainable construction practices and preparing them for modern workforce demands.
Andy Adams, Managing Director of T3 Training and Development, lauded the launch of the first dedicated MMC training facility in the UK as a significant milestone in addressing the sector’s skills gap. The facility is designed to empower the next generation of ‘Trainee Assembly Specialists’ with the technical know-how required to thrive in an evolving industry. The project’s realization underscores the power of collaboration and shared vision in shaping the future of construction training.
The ‘Modern Methods of Construction Training Centre,’ in collaboration with Laing O’Rourke, is set to welcome its first cohort of apprentices in the coming year. This initiative represents a crucial investment in developing a skilled workforce equipped to meet the challenges of modern construction practices. By nurturing talent and fostering innovation, the training center is poised to make a lasting impact on the construction industry.
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