Plans revealed for construction skills centre at James Cond print works
A sustainable construction skills centre will be created by University College Birmingham (UCB) in the James Cond print works.
Set in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, the building will be regenerated and will offer next year courses to train and upskill learners with skills suitable for the region’s changing industries. Topics include sustainable construction methods, manufacturing technologies, renewable energy, robotics and cyber and digital skills.
Michael Harkin, Vice-Chancellor and Principal at UCB said: “The recent COP26 climate change conference included high-emphasis on low-carbon sustainable buildings with highly ecological specifications, and there is great need of new talent in this field, with hundreds of thousands of new workers expected to be required in the next few years.
“Our exciting new courses are centred around sustainable construction and design, plus developing advanced skills in engineering and construction, and are very different to those offered by other local providers.”
UCB says the refurbishment of the building, which is located in the Jewellry Quarte’s Conservation Area, will honour the area’s heritage alongside providing the city with opportunities.
Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Not only will it help regenerate and breathe new life into the former iconic James Cond print works, but it will also critically help train people in the skills that employers need, helping residents find good quality, long-term work.”
More than £10m has been invested by UCB into Birmingham to drive regeneration in the city.
UCB has also partnered with the University of Warwick to provide further learning opportunities for students who can enter UCB on technical courses and progress through to degree and master’s level courses at the University of Warwick.
Another regeneration project by UCB is a bespoke STEM education and training facility at Camden House. It is due for completion this summer.
The James Cond and Camden House projects are the next phase in a £130 million investment in UCB’s campuses and learning facilities, including McIntyre House and Moss House, both opposite the print works.
