The hub has been designed and equipped to replicate real-life modern engineering and manufacturing workplaces and will be responsible for delivering technical skills.
The new facility is a result of a multi-million pound expansion and forms a second site to EEF’s Technology Training Centre – also in Aston - which opened in 2014. The Technology Hub now brings EEF’s total investment into its apprentice training centre in Aston to £12 million.
It boasts 280 IT stations, £1.3 million of equipment and tools and has a range of areas devoted to developing technological skills, such as robotics and rapid prototyping.
The Princess Royal was shown around the centre, including its industry standard CAD (computer aided design) suite, Lean Training room and industry standard tool room. The Princess Royal also met apprentices, employers and business leaders.
The new hub will see the number of apprentices trained at the centre increase to over 400 a year.
Terry Scuoler, chief executive of EEF, said: “This additional investment into our purpose-built technology training centre in the Midlands – the very heartland of UK manufacturing – demonstrates our commitment to industry and our support for first-class apprenticeship opportunities.
“We are proud of this investment and of the young people we train, who are to be congratulated for their dedication, determination and drive. I am delighted that The Princess Royal has helped us to mark this special day.”
