The UK has taken a significant step forward in its mission to become a world leader in battery technology, with the launch of the Battery Manufacturing Skills Pathway (B-MSP) by University College Birmingham (UCB). This is the first fully accredited program of its kind in the UK, aiming to create a talent pipeline that will sustain the nation’s battery value chain across various sectors. The B-MSP is designed to equip trainees with nationally recognized qualifications and practical experience, making it an attractive pathway into battery technology roles for career returners, career changers, and those from non-STEM backgrounds. The program offers a flexible and scalable training solution for organizations of any size, addressing the increasing skills gap in battery manufacturing. For businesses, the B-MSP represents a crucial investment in the future of their industry. As Gary Tourell, Chief Engineer for Propulsion Prototype build at Jaguar Land Rover, notes, “You can’t go for long without reading something in the press about electrification, what’s gone wrong with it and mistakes that were made. Having this level of training, where you can practice being around live battery work is absolutely critical to us.” This statement highlights the importance of hands-on training in the field of battery manufacturing. The B-MSP has been made possible through the collaboration of various partners, including Cranfield University, RAVMAC, and WMG at the University of Warwick. These organizations have provided significant support and funding, secured by UKRI’s Faraday Battery Challenge, delivered by Innovate UK. This partnership has enabled the delivery of an innovative training program that bridges the skills gap in battery manufacturing and serves as a gateway to electrification careers across multiple industries. The significance of the B-MSP was recognized by Deputy Mayor of the West Midlands, Sharon Thompson, who stated, “Programs like the B-MSP offer a means to develop, attract and retain talent in this highly skilled, growth area. This pioneering skills pathway in battery manufacture fits perfectly with the West Midlands Combined Authority’s plan to achieve net zero carbon emissions through key strategies, including the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs).”
The B-MSP offers a unique approach to training, combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience. Trainees will have the opportunity to engage with industry leaders, participate in hands-on training sessions, and work on real-world projects. This approach ensures that trainees develop the confidence and qualification to effectively contribute from day one. The program is designed to be flexible and scalable, making it an attractive option for organizations of any size. The B-MSP is City & Guilds accredited, ensuring that trainees receive nationally recognized qualifications. This accreditation provides employers with the assurance that trainees have received high-quality training, meeting industry standards. Examples of the types of roles that the B-MSP can lead to include:
- Battery pack engineer
- Electric vehicle technician
- Automotive battery specialist
- Renewable energy engineer
The B-MSP has the potential to make a significant impact on the UK’s battery value chain. By creating a talent pipeline of skilled workers, the program will help to drive innovation and growth in the industry. As the demand for electric vehicles and renewable energy solutions continues to increase, the need for skilled workers in battery manufacturing will only continue to grow. In conclusion, the Battery Manufacturing Skills Pathway is a pioneering program that has the potential to transform the UK’s battery value chain. By providing a structured pathway into battery technology roles, the B-MSP offers a means to develop, attract, and retain talent in this highly skilled, growth area. With its flexible and scalable design, the B-MSP is an attractive option for organizations of any size, and its City & Guilds accreditation ensures that trainees receive nationally recognized qualifications.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Flexible and Scalable Design | The B-MSP program is designed to meet the needs of organizations of any size, providing a flexible and scalable training solution. |
| Nationally Recognized Qualifications | The B-MSP program provides nationally recognized qualifications, ensuring that trainees receive high-quality training that meets industry standards. |
| Hands-on Training | Trainees will engage with industry leaders, participate in hands-on training sessions, and work on real-world projects, providing practical experience and confidence. |
“The B-MSP is a game-changer for our industry. We are committed to supporting the development of a skilled workforce, and this program is a crucial step towards achieving that goal.”
Gary Tourell, Chief Engineer for Propulsion Prototype build at Jaguar Land Rover
What sets the B-MSP apart is its focus on practical experience and real-world projects. By combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on training, trainees will develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the battery manufacturing industry.
The B-MSP is a testament to the power of collaboration and partnership. The program’s success is a result of the hard work and dedication of its partners, including Cranfield University, RAVMAC, and WMG at the University of Warwick.
- Develop, attract, and retain talent
- Fills the increasing skills gap in battery manufacturing
- Provides nationally recognized qualifications
- Offers flexible and scalable training solutions
The B-MSP is an innovative program that has the potential to transform the UK’s battery value chain.
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