A new academy that is set to play a critical role in Greater Manchester’s ambitions to become carbon neutral is launching in Trafford.
The Green Skills Academy based in Trafford Park is opening on Thursday (January 19) and offering a number of training courses in green technologies.
Training will be available in technologies including electric vehicle charging point installation, ground and air source heat pumps, solar panels, smart home programming systems and wind turbine installation.
The academy, established by the Growth Company, is aiming to help Manchester become a zero carbon city by 2038 and will work with businesses across the UK to meet the Government’s target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
There are several real-world work environments onsite, including a model house to show how existing homes can be entirely powered by green technology.
The academy is also offering opportunities for those working in skilled trades including electricians, plumbers, roofers, gas engineers, construction workers, heating programmers and technicians.
Rothwell Plumbing Services Group (RPS) Group has appointed the Green Skills Academy as its ‘Centre of Excellence for the North of England’ and will be encouraging all apprentices, engineers, and business partners to participate in its training programs and courses.
Graham Rothwell, chief executive of RPS Group, said: “Our sector is facing a green skills shortage but, by working in collaboration across Greater Manchester and beyond, we can help to plug the green skills gap, create jobs for local people and provide new training opportunities.”
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “It’s fantastic to see the Green Skills Academy come to fruition. As a hub for the latest qualifications and skills opportunities it will give people the invaluable experience needed to work with emerging green technologies. I can’t wait to see learners of all ages become part of the story here.
“Credit has to go to The Growth Company for having the ambition and foresight to invest in the Green Skills Academy. I’m excited to say that Greater Manchester can boast about another first for the UK, putting the city-region and the North at the forefront of tackling the green skills gap and meeting our climate challenges head on.”
For more information about the Growth Company visit www.growthco.uk/
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here