Menu
Burnley College, an IoT academic partner, has kickstarted a series of experiential days aimed at inspiring the next generation of industry leaders.
This initiative has been made possible through the collaborative use of LSIF (Local Skills Improvement Funds) funding and IOT resources which Burnley College has invested in cutting-edge equipment to address the evolving needs of the manufacturing industry in Lancashire.
The event highlighted how these resources are driving innovation and creating opportunities for students and employers alike.
Around 80 learners from Burnley College, Preston, and Runshaw got exclusive access to the cutting-edge equipment and saw the skills needed to excel in today’s fast-evolving manufacturing landscape as part of the digital transformation day.
The day, funded by The Lancashire Colleges Group, gave students the opportunity to learn about the higher education opportunities available locally.
The aim of the events is to reduce the gap in higher education participation between the most and least represented groups, equip learners to make an informed choice about their options into and through higher education and to minimise the barriers they may face when choosing the option that will unlock their potential.
Following a tour of the facilities, the event featured a series of immersive workshops led by industry experts, from AMRC North West, CAD-IT, Festo and RTC North – supported by Burnley College Student Ambassadors – giving students a firsthand look at the future of manufacturing and potential career paths.
Key highlights included:
As well as meeting IoT students, visitors learned about the IoT, how to apply, funding, and other support available.
This innovative and interactive event will help equip students with essential skills and insights into the latest advancements in manufacturing technologies and their practical applications, tailored to meet the emerging priorities of Lancashire’s manufacturing sector.
Speaking about the event, David Lord, Head of Construction and Engineering at Burnley College, highlighted the incredible opportunity for learners: “Days like this are vital in inspiring the next generation to pursue careers in these vitally important industries for our region.
“But inspiration alone isn’t enough – that’s why capital investment from the IoT and Burnley College to ensure we have the state-of-the-art facilities the learners have seen today, is so important.
“By investing in cutting-edge equipment, we ensure our learners don’t just develop an interest in these fields, but actually gain the skills and hands-on experience that make them work-ready. They leave us prepared to step straight into employment with the expertise that employers want and need.”
As part of the IoT, Burnley College is committed to delivering world-class higher technical education, ensuring a pipeline of highly skilled professionals for key industries.
There will be more Future U events announced at other IoT colleges in the Spring.
