Skills Development /
For many generations one of the undoubted strengths of West Cumbria has been the skill and loyalty of the local workforce. A workforce that has excelled in traditional industries such as coal mining, iron and steel and now of course nuclear - industries that require a broad mix of skills and expertise.
The aim of Britain’s Energy Coast is to build on that tradition and create a world class workforce that can make the most of the many opportunities that exist in both the nuclear and broader energy industries.
Many of the disciplines that are essential to work in the nuclear industry; high quality skills, excellence in health, safety and environmental protection, as well as the ability to work in a highly regulated arena can be transferred across the energy sector. It is those skills that will provide the foundation to create Britain’s Energy Coast.
Many of the projects captured in the West Cumbria Masterplan link together to provide a skills journey from school, through a wide range of higher and further education, and vocational training to ultimately capturing the best ideas and innovation to put West Cumbria at the forefront of energy expertise.
Existing engagement by local industry with schools is thriving, and initiatives such as Energus and the existing Gen2 provide a bridge from school into employment. The development of a West Cumbria University Campus and existing further and higher education at both Lillyhall and Westlakes will open up continued opportunities for learning and skill development. The Dalton Cumbria Facility and a National Nuclear Laboratory will capture, test and deliver the latest innovations.
The overall aim of all these projects and other linked initiatives are to create that sustainable, world class, highly skilled workforce that will be crucial in making Britain’s Energy Coast the success West Cumbria both needs and deserves.
