Supporting Kent’s next generation of engineers

We are delighted to be able to support the next generation of Engineers in Kent through our partnership with the Leigh University Technical College (UTC). This brand new college, due to open in Dartford in September 2014, will offer 14-19 year olds the opportunity to take a highly regarded and technically orientated courses.

Group managing director Keith Ellis explains “Innovation and investment are key to ensuring that our products are of the highest quality as the consequences of late deliveries or product failure in our business are potentially very serious. For this reason our success relies heavily on having skilled people with real engineering and computer science knowledge, enthusiasm and creativity. There is a very real skills shortage in UK manufacturing but what people don’t always realise is how broad the range of career opportunities in this sector actually is. The Leigh UTC is very important to Kenard and employers like us because it ensures that the next generation of employees are inspired and equipped with all the skills and knowledge needed to keep us at the cutting edge. It’s an exciting time to be in engineering and computer sciences.”

Steve Leahey, Principal of the Leigh UTC says “Kenard Engineering has been fully committed to the proposed Leigh UTC, to help support the growth of Engineering and IT skills in the local community by shaping the UTC’s curriculum and training needs. Kenard’s continued commitment, with their MD Keith Ellis as chair of the governors will have a direct impact on the student’s outcomes, reducing the skills gap and giving them the opportunity to work with people from industry on a day to day basis.”