Polymer Technology Ireland (PTI), the Ibec group that represents the polymer industry in Ireland, along with the First Polymer Training Skillnet, have announced the expansion of its training Centre of Excellence in Athlone.
The centre has been supporting businesses since 1999 and is Ireland's only dedicated training centre for the polymer industry.
The expansion will allow the centre to further support employers in the industry, to attract and retain talent through specialised upskilling programmes and progression opportunities.
"The expansion of the Centre of Excellence is a testament to the growing strength of Ireland’s indigenous polymer industry and will be a crucial platform for showcasing the latest in robotics, automation, and smart support technologies," PTI said in a statement.
The expansion includes a doubling of the existing training hall space, along with the acquisition of "state-of-the-art" equipment to cover a wider range of upskilling needs from machine set up, to processing and maintenance.
"World class technical skills lie at the heart of successful polymer companies," said Mark McAuley, Director of Ibec’s Polymer Technology Ireland.
"We need to constantly develop our industry expertise to stay at the cutting edge of innovation and manufacturing excellence, supporting sustainable growth and development.
"The expansion of the Centre of Excellence will form a central pillar in the delivering of this ambition," he added.
Paul Healy, Chief Executive at Skillnet Ireland said developing specialist talent in Ireland’s manufacturing and technology industries is vital for innovation and building stronger companies within the polymer sector.
"By supporting this Centre of Excellence, Skillnet Ireland and Ibec are providing a platform for polymer companies to work together to develop the talent they need to compete and to offer rewarding career paths for their employees," he said.
Catherine Collins, Network Manager for First Polymer Training Skillnet, said over the course of 20 years, they have trained almost 10,000 people.
"The Irish polymer sector continues to evolve as one of Ireland's premier manufacturing and technology industries," she said.
"The expansion and upgrading of the Centre of Excellence will further support this growth, while continuing to bring companies together to make connections, develop business links and identify sustainable growth opportunities," she added.
