Wolverhampton University signs MoU with auto supplier
THE University of Wolverhampton has signed a new agreement with a leading automotive component supplier to develop new training opportunities.
ZF is a worldwide supplier of driveline and chassis technology and Darlaston-based ZF Lemforder UK Ltd plans to develop an in-house training centre.
The company will work in partnership with the university and Walsall College to design and accredit a series of courses that could lead to vocational qualifications and university awards.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) sealing the relationship was signed by Pro Vice-Chancellor Research and Enterprise Professor Ian Oakes; Jatinder Sharma, Chief Executive of Walsall College; Terry Somerfield, Managing Director of ZF Lemforder UK Ltd and Fiona Turner, Personnel Manager at ZF Lemforder UK Ltd.
The courses will include operator training, both on and off the job, leading to qualifications such as NVQ Engineering, and work-based Masters degrees and doctorates.
The university will work with ZF Lemforder UK to recruit a recent graduate to develop the planned training centre and Walsall College is also set to support the company with the delivery of its apprenticeship programme.
The new initiative will provide work placement opportunities for college and university students and ZF Lemforder will provide input into curricula to ensure courses are suitable for the needs of the business.
Professor Oakes said: “We are delighted to have signed this agreement with ZF Lemforder, sealing this exciting new relationship as part of our commitment to business and enterprise.
“By the end of the two-year project ZF Lemforder will have a training centre and an agreed suite of courses in place as well as a strategic plan for future staff development.”
Mr Somerfield said the company had worked hard to secure new and follow-on business from its key customers and the agreement with the university would help to strengthen its position.
Jatinder Sharma said the college was committed to working in partnership with local companies and organisations to bring new opportunities to the area.
The in-house training centre will be based on existing successful models within the automotive industry and other sectors.
All courses will provide opportunities for work-based projects, designed in conjunction with ZF Lemforder UK Ltd to ensure activity is directed at organisational as well as individual development.
Pictured seated: Fiona Turner, Personnel Manager at ZF Lemforder UK Ltd and Terry Somerfield, Managing Director of ZF Lemforder UK Ltd; Standing: Jatinder Sharma, Chief Executive of Walsall College and Pro Vice-Chancellor Research and Enterprise at the University of Wolverhampton Professor Ian Oakes.
