Funding from the Welsh government has seen the NPTC Group of Colleges become the first to deliver Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) RQF qualifications
Three Welsh ECITB qualifications in mechanical, pipefitting, and plating pathways are now available at Neath College, South Wales.
The qualifications are already available in England, but have now been approved by ECTIB for the NPTC Group to deliver.
The three qualifications are:
• ECITB Level 2 Diploma in Supporting the Installation of Engineering Construction Plant and Systems (RQF) – mechanical fitting, pipefitting and plating
• ECITB Level 3 Diploma in Engineering Construction Maintenance (RQF) – mechanical
• ECITB Level 3 Diploma in Installing Engineering Construction Plant and Systems (RQF) – mechanical fitting, pipefitting and plating
Mark Dacey, chief executive of the NPTC Group of Colleges, said: “This milestone is more than a first for Wales – it’s a statement of intent.
“We’re investing in people, in potential and in the future of our industry. Becoming an ECITB approved centre means we can empower individuals to grow their careers and help employers build resilient, future-ready teams. It’s a proud moment, and just the beginning of what we aim to achieve.
“This landmark approval positions NPTC Group of Colleges at the forefront of engineering construction training in Wales and we look forward to working with our partners to shape the future of the industry.
“This achievement brings exciting opportunities for individuals and employers across the region. For individuals, ECITB qualifications offer enhanced employability, clearer career progression pathways and increased confidence through the validation of their skills.
“Our employers will benefit from a more skilled and qualified workforce, improved quality and consistency, and increased competitiveness in both national and global markets. These qualifications are designed to meet the evolving demands of the industry, helping businesses stay ahead of technological and operational changes.”
ECITB are tackling the skills shortage
In May, ECITB allocated £400,000 to the Energy Transition Skills Hub (ETSH) in Aberdeen for training skilled workers in the clean energy transition.
Besides learning spaces, the ETSH will see a community space, flexible curriculum, and weekend and evening courses for younger and adult learners.
At the time, Andrew Hockey, ECITB chief executive, said: “Our Labour Forecasting Tool predicts that the ECI could need thousands of additional workers over the coming years for major projects, including those that contribute to the country’s net zero goals.
“Without a pipeline of trained, skilled workers all this risks not being achieved, which is why we’re working with industry partners in the UK’s industrial cluster regions to grow the number of skilled engineers and craftspeople we need now and in the future.
“As an integral part of workforce development and supporting the pipeline of new recruits into the energy industry, the Skills Hub will be central to the success of the long-term project to support the transition to renewable energies in North East Scotland.
“The ECITB is delighted to support the project, with the proposal highlighting the commitment of industry partners to be involved in the designing, equipping and curriculum planning for the facility.”
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