A £2.3 million advanced green technology centre has opened in the city marking a major investment in future skills, green technologies, retrofit training and regional economic growth.
The new centre, based at Stoke on Trent College's Burslem Campus, features industry-standard facilities including electric vehicle charging training bays, solar PV systems, heat pump technology, and wall Insulation training.
The development will help build the retrofit and green technical skills needed across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, while creating clear progression routes into Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), engineering and a range of sustainable construction careers.
The official opening event welcomed employers, stakeholders, education partners and civic leaders, including the Deputy Lord Lieutenant, Lord Mayor, Councillor Steve Watkins, and representatives from the city council, which provided Government funding to support the development.
Government funding support for the development was provided through the council.
Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and regeneration at Stoke-on-Trent City Council said: “The Advanced Green Technology Centre is a fantastic example of how Government funding can deliver long-term benefits for local communities
“By investing in skills, innovation and technical education, this project will help create new opportunities for residents, support local employers, and strengthen Stoke-on-Trent’s reputation as a centre for advanced manufacturing and engineering excellence, helping to develop a skills-ready, future-ready workforce.
“We are proud to support this important development alongside Stoke on Trent College and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have across the city and wider region.”
Principal and CEO of Stoke on Trent College Hassan Rizvi said: “The opening of the £2.3 million Advanced Green Technology Centre represents an important milestone for the College and for our region.
“I am particularly proud that it is a project which demonstrates our commitment to future skills, sustainability and supporting economic growth across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.
“This centre strengthens our position as a leading technical college and reflects the strong partnerships we have with employers to ensure learners develop the skills industry needs both now and in the future.”
The centre has been developed in collaboration with local employers and key external stakeholders to help address skills shortages and support workforce development in green technologies and advanced engineering.
Facilities and specialist equipment will also be made available to employers, particularly SMEs, enabling businesses to upskill staff locally, improve productivity and support innovation without the need to travel outside the region.
The Advanced Green Technology Centre forms part of the college's wider commitment to developing technical education and supporting the transition to a greener economy through industry-focused training.
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