Fast growing training provider Smart Energy has opened a new energy training centre in Stourbridge. The official opening was attended by Cat Eccles, Member of Parliament for Stourbridge, and Councillor Mohammed Hanif, of Dudley Borough Council, as well as manufacturers, employers and prospective learners.

Speaking at the event, Mrs Eccles said: “Smart Energy Training’s investment in this centre is a vote of confidence in Stourbridge and a boost for young people in the area. It was fantastic to see the new high-tech equipment at the centre, which supports the government’s drive to reduce dependency on fossil fuels and help lower energy bills.”

The event follows the acquisition of Elements Training & Assessment earlier this year, which was launched 10 years ago by Matthew Stonehouse and his father, Ian. The business will now operate under the Smart Energy Training banner, with Matthew and Ian still involved.

Former world darts champion and current Sky Sports pundit Mark Webster was present during the open day to take on visitors in a fun challenge. Those who scored more than the Welsh icon won a prize, while the person with the highest score went home with a new drill.

Paul Drew, director for Smart Energy Training (pictured above with Cat Eccles MP), said the day had been a success, with dozens of people enquiring about training opportunities: “We had a fantastic day showing people around our new facility, which exists to help build the next generation of gas, plumbing, electrical and low-carbon engineers.

“We have both apprenticeships and short courses on offer to support employers with their recruitment needs, as well as helping young people access meaningful skilled careers. There is a significant skills shortage in this sector especially around the West Midlands and local area which needs to be tackled head on to ensure the country has the engineers is needs to keep homes and businesses warm, while successfully transitioning to low-carbon energy.”

Smart Energy Training recently launched its Essential Trade Futures campaign, which encourages organisations to recruit apprentices or transfer unused Apprenticeship Levy funds.

The company is hosting a series of open day events during the summer, with the next being held at its longest standing training centre in Ashbourne on Wednesday 28th August.

For more information, please visit: www.smartenergytraining.co.uk