February saw Trafford and Stockport College Group make a giant leap in the direction of sustainability with the opening of the new “Green Technologies Hub” on 28th February 2024. Installed by Quantum Group, a leading provider of renewable training courses and green skills, this innovative training facility will be used to train engineers to install heat pumps, electrical car charging points and solar thermals as part of a push to upskill the workforce of tomorrow and increase the number of renewable energy installers.
Stockport College campus is the flagship college for this hub and will be working with Quantum Group and Daikin, a top eco-heating technology company on the path to net zero.
The opening of the hub was attended by Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester who said “Employers need green skills in Greater Manchester. This hub is a perfect embodiment of what the Greater Manchester Baccalaureate is all about, and the dream is that kids will be able to apply for the course at this college. That is when we will really piece it together! We must give them a path to the amazing opportunities and this college is going to do that”.
Maria Gonella, Managing Partner at Quantum Group said “Quantum were thrilled to have designed and installed Stockport’s flagship renewables training facility for low carbon technologies – it is a great step forward to meet Manchester’s net zero targets. Working collaboratively is the fastest way to upskill both trainers and students alike and Stockport is leading the way! Educators and industry working together to achieve the trajectory required towards a cleaner future!”
The day also included keynote speakers Michelle Lesley – Vice Principle, Trafford and Stockport College Group, Rachel McCrystal – Managing Director at Daikin UK, Cole mark Hunter – Leader of Stockport Council, Tracey Wood – Assistant Principle, Adult & Employer Engagement and Danielle Judge – Assistant Principle, Apprenticeships, who all spoke about the positive impact of this new training facility on the future of sustainability, both locally and globally.
The group recognises the importance of workplace learning and building partnerships with local employers. Danielle Holt – Employer Partnerships Manager here at Trafford and Stockport College Group, said “We can deliver the curriculum, but we recognise that real learning takes place in the workplace, and we need your support”.
Stewart Quayle, Head of Studies – Construction & Sustainability, Trafford and Stockport College Group, has designed a curriculum to deliver the knowledge and skills to upskill our future work. Stewart and the team are keen to work with local employers who are interested in upskilling their workforce and welcome anyone who would like to contact them to discuss this opportunity.