One of the biggest issues facing engineering businesses today is a growing skills gap across the sector. A number of factors are at play here, with an ageing workforce and not enough uptake from younger generations, there are simply not enough workers with the necessary skills available to fill positions.
Another factor is that the engineering field is in a constant state of flux with new technologies, trends, tools and techniques being introduced all of the time.
The solution is twofold; first, businesses need to invest in training and development programmes to help their engineers gain the necessary skills. Second, engineers that are both new and established in the sector need to be proactive in acquiring the skills that employers are looking for if they want to stand out in a competitive market.
By taking these steps, we can help close the skills gap and ensure that workers have the skills that they need to be successful. In this article, Martin Ahner, Head of norelem Academy, explains why engineers should turn to the norelem ACADEMY to improve their skills with specialist knowledge and hands-on learning.
A one-stop-shop
Providing a complete understanding of design engineers’ current and future needs and offering specific knowledge on issues related to mechanical engineering, norelem ACADEMY is a one-stop-shop solution towards bridging the skills gap.
Regardless of your skill level or requirements, the ACADEMY offers a comprehensive approach to training with diverse courses to help students understand standardised machine elements and technical design.
norelem works closely with industry partners, including educational institutions and universities, to ensure that the training and resources it offers follow their general conditions and are in line with the most recent standards and technological innovations. Notably, norelem’s academic partnerships integrate its resources into university curricula, giving students the practical experience they need to flourish in their studies and in future employment.
With the support of these partnerships, norelem ACADEMY offers a central resource where innovation meets education. Designed for professionals, students and companies to access hands-on technical training, those enrolled can interact with experts, attend industry events and work on cutting-edge projects. In particular, they gain exposure to the latest advancements in technology and engineering practices.
Developing talent
For students who like to learn at their own pace, the ACADEMY provides a comprehensive Online Training Centre where students can access resources such as videos, webinars, tutorials and technical resources. This flexibility enables students to learn mechanical engineering principles wherever and whenever they want to.
norelem’s technical training delves into more detail on specific products and applications, allowing budding engineers to thoroughly understand their intricacies.
norelem ACADEMY also offers training at various levels to suit different needs. For beginners, the interactive basic training offers an introduction to the fundamental technical concepts via online courses, allowing students to learn at their own pace. Advanced learning content is available for experienced engineers who are looking to upskill and expand their specialist knowledge.
Alongside these courses, individual product training is a popular choice for students of the ACADEMY. This training is beneficial for those looking for training that is adaptable to their needs while also providing the option of online or on-site sessions for flexibility. Here students can expect to learn about everything from fixture construction through to linear technology.
Beyond training courses, the norelem ACADEMY also sponsors various projects in order to offer practical experience to students. For instance, the norelem Engineering Newcomer Competition encourages young engineers to push the boundaries of mechanical engineering with their own innovative designs.
The ACADEMY can also come to you. Taking to the roads of the UK for the first time this year, norelem’s SHOWTRUCK offers a mobile learning space, allowing students to experience practical, real-time demonstrations without the need to travel themselves.
The SHOWTRUCK tours universities around Europe, offering customised product training courses. Accommodating up to 15 people, the unique environment encourages collaboration and interactive learning, bridging the gap between practice and theory.
The engineers of tomorrow
A core part of the norelem ACADEMY is its commitment to fostering young talent. Attracting approximately 2,000 participants a year across Europe, the ACADEMY provides free expert lectures on insights related to technological innovations, ensuring that students stay up to date on industry trends.
In addition to lectures, norelem is also a big advocate for hands-on training, which is why it has hosted the VD Racing Camp since 2016. Supporting the Formula Student team, the camp hosts 19 teams from across Germany, giving students a unique opportunity to test their vehicles in real-world situations.
Furthermore, norelem’s assistance for Formula Student teams extends beyond technical resources to provide vital experience and coaching. norelem offers components, such as shoulder bolts for differential hangers and Loctite threadlocker for chassis insert installation. Teams also benefit from help during the design stage, which is essential for making educated technical decisions. This hands-on support improves competition performance as well as an understanding of important mechanical principles.
Skills fit for the future
With a full and comprehensive training offering, interactive projects and expert support, norelem ACADEMY is a career-defining launchpad for any engineer, whether they are new to the industry or looking to upskill.
Providing valuable insights into the latest technological advancements, enhancing student’s employability and instilling confidence, the hands-on training ensures a deep understanding of practical applications, setting students apart in a competitive job market.
With a commitment to developing talent, the ACADEMY is ready to assist students for years to come. Many students themselves express a desire for a long-term collaboration with norelem.
To hear more stories of how the ACADEMY is helping engineers, students, and companies across the globe, or to register, head to: www.norelem.co.uk/en/norelem-academy.
