In-Comm Training is launching a new robotic automation cell in Telford to address growing skills demands in the Marches region’s advanced manufacturing sector. The £2.5 million initiative, supported by the Marches Education Partnership and government funding, will provide specialized training in robotic programming, maintenance, and automation for automotive, aerospace, and renewable energy industries.
Future-Ready Workforce Development
The training facility features cutting-edge equipment including:
- Industrial robotic systems with Siemens PLC controls
- ESAB MIG welding technology in safety enclosures
- Offline simulation capabilities
Courses range from Level 3 certifications in robot programming to Level 4 industrial robotics qualifications, covering PLC integration, production line automation, and fluid power systems.
Bridging the Automation Skills Gap
“With manufacturers increasingly adopting automation, we’ve partnered with Bauromat to deliver relevant, shopfloor-ready training,” said In-Comm MD Gareth Jones. The program targets both upskilling existing engineers and creating new career pathways, helping local businesses overcome recruitment challenges while improving productivity through smarter technology adoption.
Cost-Effective Automation Transition
The initiative emphasizes practical, modular training approaches that enable manufacturers to implement automation incrementally. “Businesses don’t need massive investments to start seeing benefits,” Jones noted, highlighting upcoming demonstration events where companies can explore automation strategies tailored to their operational scale and budget.
Regional Skills Transformation
This forms part of a broader skills development push across Shropshire and Herefordshire, with 14 new training centers and 30 courses being established under the Local Skills Improvement Fund. The partnership between colleges, training providers, and local councils specifically addresses skills shortages identified in the Marches’ manufacturing and green technology sectors, ensuring the workforce can meet evolving industry demands.
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