Oliver Mundell MSP Visits Ayrshire College’s Willie Mackie Skills Hub
On Tuesday, 22 October 2024, Oliver Mundell MSP visited Ayrshire College’s Kilwinning Campus to tour the Willie Mackie Skills Hub, a state-of-the-art facility made possible through funding from the Nuclear Restoration Services (NRS), the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), North Ayrshire Council, the Ayrshire College Foundation and the Scottish Funding Council. The visit marked one year since the Hub’s official opening and provided an opportunity to reflect on how this significant investment has contributed to skills development in North Ayrshire.
Mr. Mundell, alongside representatives from NRS and NDA, met with college staff to discuss the progress and success of the Skills Hub. They toured the workshops where students and apprentices were actively engaged in practical, hands-on training. Discussions focused on the ongoing impact of the facility, future training programmes, and the importance of building a skilled workforce to meet the needs of local and national industries.
Anne Campbell, Vice Principal of Skills and Enterprise at Ayrshire College, said:
"It was a pleasure to welcome Mr. Mundell and our partners from NRS and NDA to see how the Skills Hub is enhancing learning at Ayrshire College. This investment allows us to offer industry-driven training and apprenticeships, which are already making a meaningful difference for both our students, local businesses and the wider community."
The Willie Mackie Skills Hub has been an important addition to the College’s infrastructure, providing students and apprentices with access to industry-standard equipment and training. The Hub’s proximity to the main campus has also enhanced the student experience by integrating state-of-the-art facilities with the College’s wider learning environment.
Oliver Mundell MSP and Convener of the Scottish Parliament Cross-Party Group on the Civil Nuclear Industry expressed his support for the College’s approach to skills development:
"It was fantastic to see the Willie Mackie Skills Hub in action. The focus on apprenticeships and practical training is equipping students with the skills they need to thrive in today’s workforce. Ayrshire College’s commitment to developing local talent is truly impressive, and I look forward to seeing the continued benefits this facility brings to the community."
The visit by NRS and NDA representatives provided an opportunity to review how their investment is delivering value for both the College and the wider community.
Mark Blackley, NRS Hunterston A Site Director, said: "It’s fantastic to see how our investment is supporting the Skills Hub’s success. The opportunities created here are providing students and apprentices with crucial skills, and we’re proud to see this project making a lasting, positive impact on the region."
David Wallace, NDA Stakeholder Relations Manager for the Devolved Regions added:
"We’re pleased to support a facility that is vital to developing the skilled workforce needed for North Ayrshire’s future industries. The students and apprentices here are benefiting from an exceptional learning environment, which will serve them well in their careers. We invest in projects which leave a positive legacy in our site communities and deliver sustainable, long-term benefits.”
Since opening, the Skills Hub has become a cornerstone of Ayrshire College’s learning and apprenticeship programmes, providing training in construction, trades and sustainable technologies. The College remains committed to ensuring students gain the skills they need to meet local industry demands and succeed in their careers.
Share this post
