University College Birmingham (UCB) has officially launched the UK’s first fully certified battery manufacturing skill pathway (B-MSP).
Developed in response to the growing demand for skilled battery manufacturing professionals, this innovative program aims to bridge the industry’s skills gaps while supporting the transition to net-zero.
Rt Hunt Hunt, Minister of Energy Security and Net Zero, Kings Heath OBE, stressed the importance of the initiative.
“Storing energy is key to building an energy system that can reach clean power and reduce energy bills by 2030.
“The Birmingham Battery Manufacturing Skills Pathway is at the forefront of equipping the battery manufacturing workforce with the expertise needed to promote a sustainable future.”
Coordinated solutions for growth industries
Certified by City & Guilds, B-MSP offers flexible and scalable training solutions designed to accommodate both small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large Gigafactories.
As the UK strengthens its efforts to strengthen its battery manufacturing sector, the programme will ensure a stable talent pipeline across key industries, including automobiles, marine, defense, portable electronics and construction.
Industry Training for a Sustainable Future
B-MSPs are now possible through funding from the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Faraday Battery Challenge.
Developed in collaboration with industry leaders such as Microsoft, Atlas Copco, Rockwell Automation, Jaguar Land Rover, Pi-Kem, Delta Cosworth and Yazaki, the program integrates cutting-edge technology and industry insights to provide practical, practical training.
To ensure alignment with real-world battery production needs, the initiative received strategic guidance from an advisory committee featuring key representatives from the Electrification Skills Network (ESN), UK Battery Industrialization Centre (UKBIC), Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), West Midlands Combination Authority, and Greater Birmingham & Solihull Technology (GBSIOT).
Empowering employers and employees
For businesses, B-MSPs reduce onboarding times by equipping trainees with real-world capabilities and technical expertise.
The program utilizes advanced technologies such as AR/VR simulation and virtual environments in combination with practical training to develop practical skills tailored to the needs of the industry.
For employees, the structured curriculum offers nationally recognized qualifications, allowing trainees to step confidently into the role of battery manufacturing with industry-approved skills and experience.
B-MSP Project Manager Pritti Shoker added:
“Certainly the success of this program is the key support we receive from our partners at Warwick University’s Cranfield University, RAVMAC and WMG, securing funding from UKRI’s Faraday Battery Challenge, provided by Innovate UK.
“Their support, coupled with our facilities and expertise, means we can fill the skills gap and offer this innovative training programme that serves as a gateway to electrified carriers across multiple industries.”
Strengthening UK battery manufacturing
As global competition in battery manufacturing intensifies, B-MSPs offer an accessible route to skilled engineering and manufacturing carriers.
The programme is designed to support career changers, newcomers and underrated groups and plays a key role in maintaining the UK battery value chain.
Following three rigorous testing phases, the B-MSP is set to be published in April, providing nationwide access to online pre-study courses.
This milestone marks a significant advance in the UK’s journey towards a future of sustainable high-tech manufacturing.
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