Youngsters given taste of world class engineering opportunities in Wales

Since the end of June, TRJ, appointed by Aston Martin Lagonda  to assist in the conversion of the  Superhanger at the  Aerospace Business Park (ABP)in St Athan, have been working closely with local schools where pupils are able to join in a ‘bridge building exercise’ promoting the benefits of STEM subjects and the construction and engineering industries. 

Economy Secretary, Ken Skates said: 

“I’m pleased that Aston Martin and one of their key suppliers at St Athan have engaged with the local community and are now making an important contribution to the education of our young people and their understanding of industry.  The future prosperity of Wales depends not only on the success of companies like Aston Martin but also on building the skills we need to support a vibrant economy.    

“We, along with Aston Martin, are committed to making St Athan a world leading manufacturing facility, by producing cars that Wales can be proud of. This investment in our economic infrastructure will be key to us achieving this goal. The planned investment by the Welsh Government in the Business Park and associated infrastructure was one of the key decision making factors in our assessment of the St Athan site.”

Karen Botting, Senior Manager – Learning and Development said:

“Aston Martin will offer a number of exciting career path opportunities at its new manufacturing facility and will be opening its apprentice programme in St Athan from 2019.  School visits such as the visit to Cowbridge Comprehensive are an excellent opportunity for our apprentices to meet with pupils, and to explain exactly what future careers are available at Aston Martin.”

Aston Martin are planning a full engagement programme with education establishments for 2018.

Alison Rees, Business Development & Community Liaison Manager for TRJ:

“This is a great opportunity for both companies to demonstrate what they have to offer, especially to the pupils of local schools who would be considering apprenticeships in the near future. 

“We are extremely grateful to pupils and teachers at Cowbridge Comprehensive who gave us a warm welcome when we visited the school to deliver two sessions of the ICE Bridge (Institution of Civil Engineers’ Bridge ) to two groups of pupil, showcasing the dynamics of Civil Engineering.  We look forward to future opportunities with Cowbridge and other schools in the area.”

Since Aston Martin Lagondas decision to choose Wales as the main location for the manufacturing of its new DBX crossover vehicle, TRJ have been playing an active part in ensuring the community benefits of this landmark economic development project are felt throughout the local area.  

Welsh Government will also be supporting TRJ, facilitating a ‘meet the buyer day’ where local trades and suppliers will be encouraged to make themselves known to TRJ, the main contractor to Aston Martin, allowing the local supply chain to be extended further.