<p>As we look towards 2050 and the UK's longer-term ambitions around reducing our carbon footprint and greenhouse emissions, Colleges in the region are stepping up to the challenge by preparing their students for the careers that will be plentiful around green energy and power supply.</p><p>The transition to green energy isn’t just a national ambition—it’s an urgent necessity. The South West stands at the forefront of this revolution, with colleges playing a vital role in shaping the workforce that will power the future. With major investments like Hinkley Point C and the rise of EV manufacturing, the region is poised to lead, but only if we equip students and businesses with the right skills.</p><p><strong>The South West region has real potential to be a national player in the nation’s energy supply solution.</strong> We've already seen the investment in Hinkley Point C, due to go live in the early 2030s, and with the growth in electrification of transportation, the announcement of a new battery factory within the South West is also a positive position for our region. Looking ahead, the mid-2030s could bring flight powered by hydrogen, electrification, and sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). Alongside this, offshore wind can generate substantial electricity, and the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMR) in the North of the region adds to the energy landscape. These are known developments, and our role as college leaders is to prepare students for these future opportunities. We must take this information and prepare our students for the jobs of the future. There is every possibility that a student with the right knowledge skills and behaviours could start their career in battery manufacture then move to offshore wind and then into hydrogen infrastructure within their career lifetime.</p><p><strong>So how do we help our students prepare for the future?</strong></p><p>Employers are looking for employees who have an inquisitive mind and want to work in that industry. Senior leads report that the <strong>desire to be there</strong> is more important, as employees can be taught the skills they need if they want to learn them. It is therefore our responsibility to make sure that our students are ready to learn and have the necessary essential and core skills to equip them to embrace a fulfilling job path for the future. Skills such as communication, teamwork, curiosity, and determination are all needed to move through and across job roles and sectors for the future. As part of the early work of the<strong> Local Skills Improvement Plans</strong>, we trialled the development and delivery of new micro-credentials for the development of the future workforce building on the feedback from employers on the need for these essential skills. We are hopeful that the proposed changes to employer-led qualifications, and the development of <strong>Skills England</strong> will allow more of the short, focused courses to be developed.</p><p><strong>Weston College, one of the West of England Institute of Technology (WEIoT)</strong> education partners has implemented a sustainability strategy that includes offering programmes focused on green skills and environmental awareness. Sustainability has been integrated into various vocational courses, from construction to engineering, and offers specialised courses in renewable energy. For example, its<strong> University Centre Weston (UCW)</strong> offers free modular courses like Level 4 Quantity Surveying and Sustainability, integrating environmental considerations into construction and engineering education.</p><p><strong>Sustainability is the imperative, not the nice-to-do</strong></p><p>As part of the awareness of sustainability <strong>Weston College</strong> throughout the year offers different focused events such as an Innovation Sustainability Day where different groups of students are brought together to solve a problem. This helps students see the value of teamwork and communication and focuses them on a particular challenge that needs to be addressed. Weston, along with all Colleges supports the <strong>UN sustainable development goals</strong> (SDGs) and staff and students are often asked to reflect on the impact of decisions on the 17 SDGs. These are particularly important to consider for the SDGs around clean energy, climate action and life below water strategies as a minimum.</p><p><strong>Supporting Adult Learners and the Workforce Transition</strong></p><p><strong>It’s not just about young people—the energy sector's transformation requires the upskilling of the current workforce. </strong>This is where colleges' responsiveness to their local communities becomes crucial. Through the WEIoT partnership, colleges in the region collaborated to create an <strong>electric vehicle upskilling package for local garages</strong>. These garages, now servicing EV-powered vehicles previously under main dealer warranties, needed staff trained in safe working practices and technical skills. By shaping and sharing this knowledge across the college network, numerous SME garages have been able to update their staff and meet growing EV servicing demands. As EV demand grows, targeted technical training ensures the region remains competitive, fostering economic growth and creating sustainable jobs.</p><p>Another significant development for the region is the use of hydrogen, and there are many different companies from Cornwall to Gloucestershire all working on different solutions on how hydrogen may be produced, moved around the region and used. Whether the outcome is for transportation, heating, power solutions and other possibilities it is an area set for growth in the future. The <strong>WEIoT alongside Business West and National Composite Centre</strong> (an WEIoT Anchor Partner) invested in early research with businesses that grew into a highly successful <strong>Hydrogen South West</strong> model. Recognising this growing market both <strong>Weston and Yeovil Colleges</strong> have delivered training to local businesses, and in the case of Yeovil a significant investment in a Hydrogen test facility that opens this month. It is the collaborative working and shared knowledge of the partnership between colleges that makes investment in collaboration worthwhile and delivers a better solution for the wider region.</p><p><strong>Shaping the Future</strong></p><p>Still, there is more to do. The <strong>WEIoT</strong> and its wider partnerships have been fortunate to engage in these industry-led initiatives, ensuring that educational programmes evolve in alignment with <strong>cutting-edge research and manufacturing</strong>. By linking education with <strong>innovation and sustainability</strong>, the South West is positioning itself as a leader in the green industrial transition.</p><p><strong>In a recent speech unveiling support for Clean Energy jobs, Skills Minister Jacqui Smith emphasised:</strong></p><p>“Skills will be a vital part of our Plan for Change and transition to a clean energy future, and I have spoken to many young people who are really keen to break into this booming sector. This initiative is an example of how skills training can support our number one mission to grow the economy whilst helping to meet Britain’s energy needs and support the move towards net zero.”</p><p>The South West has all the pieces in place to become a <strong>national leader in green energy</strong>. But we must act decisively ensuring our education system keeps pace with <strong>industry needs</strong>, our businesses invest in upskilling, and our students seize these opportunities. Through <strong>collaboration, innovation, and education</strong>, we can power a greener, more resilient future.</p>

<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">This month’s featured trailblazer is Jasmine Jaji, a former engineering student and winner of the 2022 Engineering Student of the Year award. Her journey is nothing short of inspiring, particularly as a female figure in STEM. Now pursuing a master’s degree in mechanical engineering at the University of South Wales, Jasmine shares her experiences at Weston College and how her path was shaped.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>After moving to the area, Jasmine discovered Weston College through positive recommendations. Keen to explore the facilities, she attended an Open Evening and was impressed by the personal tour of the engineering department. “I found that Weston College had the best courses available for engineering, as well as brilliant facilities like the fabrication rooms,” she recalls.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>During her time at Weston College, Jasmine developed both soft and technical skills, including machining and fabrication. She received hands-on training in operating lathes, mills, and CNC machines, as well as welding and hand-fitting techniques. The College’s state-of-the-art resources also allowed her to refine her skills in SolidWorks, a computer-aided design software. “I had the opportunity to improve my SolidWorks proficiency and even had my own designs 3D printed on campus!” she shares.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Like many students, Jasmine was uncertain about her next steps. However, with the support of her tutor and regular one-on-one guidance, she gained clarity on her career options. “My tutor was a huge support, helping me explore different career paths through weekly meetings and check-ins,” she explains.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>One of Jasmine’s favourite aspects of her studies was the fabrication workshop, where she enjoyed the hands-on experience of operating lathes independently. “There’s something rewarding about turning a length of steel into a tool like a plumb bob or a drill-and-tap gauge,” she says. She also appreciated the trust and respect fostered between students and lecturers in the workshop environment.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Struggling to engage with traditional classroom-based learning after her GCSEs, Jasmine found Weston College’s hands-on teaching approach to be a perfect fit. “I knew engineering at Weston College would involve practical learning, and I hoped it would reignite my love for education,” she explains. Her passion for engineering deepened as she gained new skills and spent generous time in workshops.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Jasmine successfully completed her Level 2 and 3 Engineering Diplomas at Weston College, followed by a foundation year in Mechanical Engineering at the University of South Wales. She has since progressed to a bachelor's degree and impressed engineers at IrvinGQ, a company specialising in certified parachutes and aerial safety solutions. In the summer of 2024, she secured a placement there, gaining invaluable industry experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Following her placement, Jasmine received outstanding exam results and was offered a place in the integrated master’s degree program. Now in her first year of an MEng in Mechanical Engineering, she is set to graduate in 2026.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Reflecting on her journey, Jasmine is proud of how far she has come—from a Year 2 Engineering student at Weston College to a master’s degree candidate. “I would recommend Weston College, especially the engineering campus, to students who prefer hands-on learning and a creative approach to education,” she says. She also praises the College’s outstanding STEM facilities, stating, “They are the best I have come across.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Jasmine expresses gratitude to the staff at Weston College for their encouragement and support. As a woman in engineering, she found inspiration in female representation in the field, which motivated her to achieve remarkable milestones in her career.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><span data-teams="true"><strong>If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College </strong></span><a class="fui-Link ___1q1shib f2hkw1w f3rmtva f1ewtqcl fyind8e f1k6fduh f1w7gpdv fk6fouc fjoy568 figsok6 f1s184ao f1mk8lai fnbmjn9 f1o700av f13mvf36 f1cmlufx f9n3di6 f1ids18y f1tx3yz7 f1deo86v f1eh06m1 f1iescvh fhgqx19 f1olyrje f1p93eir f1nev41a f1h8hb77 f1lqvz6u f10aw75t fsle3fq f17ae5zn" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&amp;utm_medium=main-…; aria-label="Link here" id="menur100" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&amp;utm_medium=main-… data-teams="true"><strong>here</strong></span></a><span data-teams="true"><strong>. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.</strong></span></p>

<p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Thomas, a former Weston College student, is excelling in the engineering and manufacturing industry. Now working at the National Composites Centre (NCC), Thomas reflects on his journey, from his time at Weston College to being shortlisted for the prestigious Make UK Awards.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Thomas began his academic journey at Weston College in 2021, pursuing a </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/apprenticeships/engineering-a…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/apprenticeships/engineering-a…; target="_blank">Level 3 Diploma in Composites Engineering</a><span style="font-size:inherit;"> and gaining a solid foundation in the field of advanced materials. Once completed in 2024, Thomas advanced to a Level 4 Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) apprenticeship with the NCC.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">At the NCC, Thomas has engaged in a variety of projects, shadowing advanced technicians and gaining hands-on experience. Beyond the technical aspects, he has worked with organisations like BBC Bitesize and the Gatsby Charity to promote engineering and manufacturing apprenticeships.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Thomas’ hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed. The National Composites Centre nominated him for the Make UK Awards in the Manufacturing and Engineering category for final-year apprentices.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">To qualify, Thomas compiled a portfolio highlighting his achievements. This was followed by an interview to delve deeper into his apprenticeship experience. Reflecting on the moment he was shortlisted, Thomas said:&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">“When I found out I had been shortlisted, I was shocked but very proud. It was validating to see all my hard work and dedication acknowledged. I was also excited to represent my company at the award ceremony.”&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Looking ahead, Thomas plans to continue developing his skills and qualifications. He is currently pursuing a Level 4 apprenticeship and hopes to further enhance his practical expertise in the workshop. His focus is on seizing opportunities for training and expanding his ability to operate advanced equipment and machinery.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Grateful for the support he received from both Weston College and the NCC, Thomas encourages others to consider apprenticeships:&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">“I’m thankful and feel very fortunate to have been surrounded by such supportive people. Apprenticeships create a great environment for learning new skills and exploring different career paths.”&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Thomas’ story is a testament to the power of dedication, education, and the opportunities provided by apprenticeships. As he continues to make strides in his career, he serves as an inspiration for aspiring engineers and technicians.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">We’d like to congratulate Thomas for his hard work, and we wish you all the best in the future.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/engin…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/engin…; target="_blank">If you’re interested in applying for an Engineering Apprenticeship, click here.</a></p>