We are proud to share that six of our apprentice welders (Russel McGuicken, Saul Irvine, Matthew McCormac, James Millar, Kurtis Irvine, and Aaron Horner) have represented Harland & Wolff at the college welding competition hosted by World Skills UK.
The competition tested the skills and competencies of trainee/apprentice welders, particularly in the areas of health and safety, attention to detail, accuracy, and multi-welding techniques to name a few. More significantly, it allowed students to put to practice the three major welding processes which include Manual Metal Arc (MMA), Metal Active Gas (MAG) and Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG).
The competition was comprised of three key stages; each stage gradually intensifies to challenge the practical ability of the students which puts their welding skills to test. At each stage, participants were required to complete a series of welding test pieces in carbon steel aluminium and stainless steel, in a range of welding forms. Following this, successful candidates will participate in the next heat against other trainees and apprentices at a regional level.
Scott Walker, an engineering lecturer at Northern Regional College added:
‘’Over the last few weeks, students have been putting their practical skills to test in the three welding processes in preparation for the competition. They have also benefited from one-to-one tuition to assist them and increase their confidence in various jobs.
“The college competition is used as an introduction to the competitive nature of WorldSkills UK competition and will help develop their skills for the heats that lay ahead.
“By taking part in these competitions, the students will further their knowledge in welding processes, setups, material types and weld inspection that is outside of their typical curriculum.
“They will be able to make contact with international weld inspectors and see first-hand what is expected to be a successful welder in industry.’’
World Skills UK is an independent charity and a partnership between employers, education and governments who work collectively to use international best practice to raise standards in apprenticeships and technical education so more young people and employers succeed.
