Manufacturing and Engineering investing in higher level skills on VQ Day 2012
21/06/2012 Enginuity
Semta, the sector skills council for Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies, has today released new figures which show companies are investing in higher skills as the UK celebrates vocational skills at this year's National VQ Day.The figures, on the health of engineering vocational qualifications in the first quarter (1st January - 31st March) of 2012, show employers recognise the need to upskill. The number of registrations at Levels 3 and 4 has increased by 20 per cent and 3 per cent respectively in the last quarter. Most notably, Level 3 Engineering Maintenance was subject to a 111 per cent increase.
Bill Twigg, apprenticeship director of Semta commented: "The rise in registrations shows employers are investing in upskilling despite challenging economic conditions.
"As we compete on a global level, we need to increase the number of technicians and upskill the current workforce to world class standards to meet the growth potential of advanced engineering and manufacturing. Semta can support employers in planning their current and future skills needs, and guide them to invest in the technical skills and training programmes that will ensure they have a competitive advantage."
With manufacturing still accounting for more than half (55 per cent) of all UK exports, the sector has a crucial role to play in the overall recovery of the UK's economic fortunes. Indeed, many commentators directly align the success of the manufacturing sector to the performance of the overall economy, demonstrating the critical importance of upskilling to maximise performance, productivity and profitability, both for businesses operating in the sector and the UK economy.
Science, engineering and manufacturing companies interested in finding out more about employee skills training should contact Semta Customer Services on 0845 643 9001, email customerservices@semta.org.uk or visit www.semta.org.uk
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