Murphy encourages applications to MIG Welding Academy with Southern Regional College

SRC is collaborating with six local companies in Newry and the surrounding area to offer 12 people the opportunity to receive industry standard welding skills.

Fully funded by the Department for the Economy, this Assured Skills Academy will see successful applicants receive six weeks’ intensive training at SRC’s dedicated training facility in Portadown where they will study City & Guilds Level 2 MIG Welding Qualification. Applicants require no experience or qualifications.

Participants who successfully complete the full training course will be guaranteed a job interview.

The companies involved include BM Steel, Newry; O’Hare Steel, Newry; Exact Group, Newry; SFM Engineering, Keady; Alternative Heat, Banbridge; and Dawson Manufacturing & Engineering, Craigavon.

Encouraging all who are interested to apply, Economy Minister Conor Murphy said: “With no experience required, this Academy is an excellent opportunity for those who are just starting out on their career journey. It is also an opportunity for those who wish to retrain or return to the workforce.

“The engineering sector is hugely important to our local economy. People with welding skills are in high demand in our engineering and manufacturing sector, as demonstrated by the number of local companies supporting this Assured Skills Academy with Southern Regional College.

“With the opportunity to receive industry standard welding training that will provide the skills to take up potential welding roles with companies in Newry and the surrounding area, I urge all who are interested to apply.”

Principal and Chief Executive of Southern Regional College Lee Campbell spoke of the opportunities this programme offers: “We are delighted to announce this fully funded Assured Skills Academy in collaboration with the Department for the Economy and local industry.

“This comprehensive and intensive six-week MIG welding programme offers participants industry recognised certification and a direct pathway to employment. By bridging the skills gap and enhancing employability, we're not just training welders – we're igniting careers and fuelling our local economy.

“This programme exemplifies our commitment to providing relevant, hands-on education that meets the evolving needs of both our students and local industry. Together, we're forging a stronger, more skilled workforce for a brighter economic future.”

Participants will receive a weekly training allowance of £175 for the duration of the Academy, as well as help with travel and childcare costs.

All applications must be at least 18 years old by Monday 14 October 2024 and eligible to work in the UK at the time of application. By applying for a place on this pre-employment training programme applicants are committing to pursuing a job opportunity with one of the employers supporting the Academy.

Further information on the Welding Academy and how to apply can be found at www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/welding-academy-southern-regional-college

The online application form must be completed by 12 noon on Friday 13 September 2024.