Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has announced the latest Collaborative Assured Skills Academy in Welding at South West College (SWC).
Funded by the Department for the Economy, SWC is offering an opportunity for 12 individuals to receive industry standard welding training that will provide them with the skills they need to take up potential welding roles with companies across the region.
Encouraging applications, the Minister said:
“The engineering sector is hugely important to the local economy and people with welding skills are clearly in high demand, as demonstrated by the number of companies supporting this Assured Skills Academy.
“The training provided by South West College will enable participants to gain the valuable skills and qualifications required to pursue a rewarding career in this important sector.
“With no previous experience in welding required and a £180 weekly training allowance for the duration of the Academy as well as help with travelling and childcare costs I would urge anyone who is interested to apply.”
Celine McCartan, Principal and Chief Executive at South West College, added:
“South West College is pleased to partner with the Department for the Economy to deliver this Assured Skills Welding Academy. With our expert lecturers and state-of-the-art facilities, we are equipping participants with the practical skills and confidence required to succeed in advanced manufacturing and engineering. This programme not only prepares individuals for immediate employment with local companies but also strengthens the talent pipeline that underpins the growth and competitiveness of the sector in our region.”
Successful applicants will attend a seven-week intensive training course delivered by SWC at their dedicated training facility in Cookstown where they will study ETCAL Level 2 Performing Engineering Operations and Certified Abrasive Wheels Training.
An Introduction to Robotic Welding (Valk) is being offered to all on the Academy who want to avail of the opportunity. Students will acquire the skills to set up and operate the robot to perform a basic welding task.
Eligible applicants will be invited to an Information Session and Interview which will be held week commencing Monday 6 October 2025 at SWC Welding Facility, Kilcronagh Industrial Estate, Cookstown.
Following completion of the training, participants will be guaranteed an interview to take up a welding position at one of the eleven supporting companies.
The Academy will be delivered from Monday 20 October 2025 to Friday 5 December 2025.
All applicants must be at least 18 years old and be eligible to work in the UK at the time of application. By applying for a place on this pre-employment training programme, applicants are committing to pursuing a job opportunity with one of the employers supporting this Academy.
More information on eligibility and details on how to apply can be found at Welding Academy | nidirect
The online application form must be completed by 12 noon on Monday 6 October 2025.
For further information please email your enquiry to assuredskills@economy-ni.gov.uk