Sparks flew at a college on the coast at the launch of a new 'industry-standard' welding academy.
The academy has been officially opened at East Coast College's Great Yarmouth campus and the event was attended by welding professionals and outgoing mayor of the borough, Graham Plant.
The launch included technical demonstrations from a range of suppliers including Fronius, Tyrolit Abrasives, Mig Anglia and many more, with David Fowler of Code-A-Weld invited along to cut the ribbon.
Mr Fowler has supported the college since 2008, employing welding students who have completed their studies.
He said: “Code-A-Weld have been lucky enough to welcome a great number of trainees through our doors over the years who have all graduated from East Coast College and gone on to be top class tradespeople.
“As a local business owner, I understand and appreciate the importance of investing and training for the future to continue to support and grow our community.
"This new facility is a credit to the success of the college and its instructors, and I am sure that it will further encourage current and future students to strive for higher and greater performance," he added.
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The launch coincided with the news that East Coast College has successfully gained certification under TWI Certification Ltd’s Certification Scheme for Welding Training Organisations (CSWTO) and is now a CSWTO Approved organisation.
Stuart Rimmer, chief executive of East Coast College, said: “It was excellent to see a reinvigoration into the skills delivery in this sector.
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"The Welding Academy, designed with and for local industry partners, will really help ensure students leave with the skills they need for a fast changing and competitive market.
"Thanks to the staff team who have delivered a great facility.”
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