A state-of-the-art Advanced Manufacturing Suite (AMS) has launched at Newcastle College following a £3million investment.

The facility was officially opened at a launch event held on Friday 14 March, bringing together industry leaders, educators, and students for a morning of networking, discussions, and live demonstrations of the new equipment.

The event included a networking breakfast at the College’s AA Rosette Chefs’ Academy, followed by a keynote speech from Principal Jon Ridley, highlighting the critical need for investment in skills development, as well as speeches from Deputy Leader at Newcastle City Council, Cllr Alex Hay, and Head of Skills for Business NECA, Michelle Rainbow.

The AMS was then officially opened by NCG’s Chair of NCG Corporation John Widdowson.

Guests received an exclusive tour of the new facilities, witnessing first-hand the advanced technologies that have been introduced to the College.

Jon Ridley, Principal of Newcastle College said: “Newcastle College is an asset of the city of Newcastle and the North East of England, working with business to develop talent for the region. We specialise in putting theory to practice, cultivating a workforce equipped with knowledge, critical thinking, and advanced technical skills. 

“The North East’s manufacturing, engineering, and energy sectors face critical challenges due to an ageing workforce and growing skills shortages. At Newcastle College, we’re actively addressing these issues, working in collaboration with industry and investing in high quality kit and equipment that students can practice with to hone their craft, skills and confidence that employers tell us they need.

“Our Advanced Manufacturing Suite addresses the skills gaps in green energy and engineering that our region faces, helping to bridge the gap between learning and real-world application, so our students leave us ready to succeed in their chosen line of work.” 

Emi Jordan, currently studying a Level 3 in Manufacturing Engineering, said “I knew I wanted to study engineering and manufacturing for quite a long time. I always wanted to build a career for myself, but I didn’t think I could do it. I came to Newcastle College, and it’s really brought out my potential and I’m now following my dream. It’s nice that the new Advanced Manufacturing Suite has brought in everything that we would use in the industry. I’ve noticed a lot of people are now starting to figure out what they want to do as a career as they can now see it firsthand.”

The new AMS has been developed in direct response to the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) and key industry recommendations, ensuring students gain practical experience with industry-standard equipment.

The equipment at the facility includes:

  • 8 new manual lathes
  • A suite of manual milling machines
  • Robot arms
  • 8 new Festo Electro pneumatic trainers
  • Industry 4.0 trainer
  • 16 3D printers
  • 8 new CNC milling machines
  • Powered guillotine and press brake