SMMT News

Transport Minister visits Millbrook Proving Ground

01 November 2011 #SMMT News

Transport Minister, Norman Baker, visited Millbrook Proving Ground as part of government’s ‘See Inside Manufacturing’ initiative to promote careers in engineering and industry.

The Minister joined pupils from Bedford Academy, Samuel Whitbread Community College, Redborne Upper School and Stratton Upper School on a tour of the proving ground’s powertrain and track facilities. He spoke to them about their career aspirations, before hearing from university graduate, James Brewster, about his route into an engineering career through a university placement programme at Millbrook – one of Europe’s leading locations for the development and demonstration of every type of land vehicle.

Commenting on the visit, Norman Baker said, “It is essential that we support and encourage our young people into worthwhile and enjoyable careers. By opening its doors today, the Millbrook team has provided a glimpse into what a future role in advanced engineering in the UK could entail. I definitely saw some of the pupils’ eyes light up at the sight of the fast cars and the military vehicles!

Miguel Fragoso, Managing Director of Millbrook Proving Ground, added, “Our apprentice and undergraduate schemes are very important for the future, not only of Millbrook, but also for the automotive sector as a whole. The ongoing success of this industry in the UK will depend heavily on inspiring the next generation of engineers and technicians – something we hope we’ve achieved here today.”

‘See Inside Manufacturing’ is a government initiative to provide young people with the opportunity to get behind the scenes of some of the UK’s world-class automotive facilities and learn about the wide range of rewarding jobs in the sector. The initiative has seen more than 30 companies host over 100 events between 10 and 21 October, in order to help change the perception of careers in industry and ensure manufacturers have access to the skills they need to remain at the forefront of advanced manufacturing.

For more information about ‘See Inside Manufacturing’, click here.

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