In a significant boost for the local engineering and manufacturing industry, Tyne Coast College has received a substantial grant from the Government’s Local Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF) to invest in state-of-the-art machinery and equipment. This investment will allow the college to enhance its curriculum, better preparing students for the evolving demands of the industry, and addressing the skills gap that employers continue to face.
As part of this initiative, the college has acquired a highly advanced ‘Markforged’ 3D printer, capable of creating industrial-strength 3D printed parts reinforced with composite fibers. This cutting-edge technology enables students to develop accurate and robust prototypes, offering them practical experience with real-world industrial materials.
By utilising this system, students will be able to bring their designs to life with remarkable precision and strength, mirroring the requirements of modern manufacturing.
To further align its programmes with industry standards, the 3D prototypes can then be measured using the college’s Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) technology, allowing students to precisely measure and validate the accuracy of their 3D-printed prototypes before transitioning them to production on the college’s industry-standard HAAS CNC machines.
This end-to-end experience, from design to creation, will ensure that learners are fully prepared to meet the challenges of real-world engineering environments.
In addition to advancing its 3D printing capabilities, the college is making strides in welding training through the implementation of Soldamatic, a cutting-edge welding simulation platform. This technology provides an immersive, 100% safe environment for students to develop their skills using real materials before moving to the live workshop. The system allows students to practice muscle memory and techniques in a controlled, virtual setting, helping reduce the risks traditionally associated with early-stage welding training.
Neil Bowen, Head of STEM and Green Initiatives, shared his excitement about the new developments:
This investment represents a huge leap forward for our students and the local industry. By integrating advanced technologies like the Markforged 3D printer, CMM devices, HAAS CNC machines, and Soldamatic simulation, we are equipping our learners with the tools they need to thrive in engineering and manufacturing careers. Not only are we addressing the current skills gap, but we are also fostering a new generation of highly capable, work-ready professionals. Our goal is to create an immersive and practical learning environment that mirrors industry conditions, ensuring our students can seamlessly transition from education to employment.
The introduction of advanced Welding Parts (AWMs) as part of the Soldamatic system allows the college to provide blended advanced welder training. This training platform is not only essential for developing new welders but also for testing and improving the skills of experienced welders across various processes, positions, and specifications. The college hopes this new technology will attract more individuals to the profession and accelerate the time needed to produce competent, certified welders for the local workforce.
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