Newcastle College unveils new Advanced Manufacturing suite boosting green skills

by Graeme Anderson · 26/03/2025

NEWCASTLE College has opened a state-of-the-art Advanced Manufacturing Suite (AMS), which will help combat the region’s lack of skills in green energy and engineering.

More than £3m has been invested in the facility, which was officially opened at a launch event that brought together industry leaders, educators, and students to see live demonstrations of the new equipment.

The event was marked by a keynote speech from Newcastle College Principal Jon Ridley, highlighting the critical need for investment in skills development. Speeches also came from the deputy leader at Newcastle City Council, Coun Alex Hay, and Michelle Rainbow of the North East Combined Authority. NCG Corporation’s chair, John Widdowson, then officially opened the AMS. Guests received an exclusive tour of the new facilities, witnessing first-hand the advanced technologies that have been introduced to the College.

Newcastle College’s Carmelo Catalanotto demos new equipment in the AMS.

Jon Ridley, Principal of Newcastle College said: “Newcastle College is an asset of the North East of England, working with business to develop talent for the region. We specialise in putting theory into 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.

“I am pleased that 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.”

Newcastle College engineering students show guests the new tech.

Emi Jordan, a student at the college 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 first hand.”

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: