Engineering sector employers are urged to find out more about a scholarship to help boost their workforce skills.
The Ørsted scholarship is now in its sixth year at Furness College with a share of £40,000 available to fund students through university courses at the Channelside campus.
It is open to small and medium sized businesses who want to support their employees to progress to higher level skills in engineering.
Ørsted, the global leader in offshore wind, has set aside the money through its Walney Extension Community Fund.
Zoe Guest, Head of Area for Technical and Build Engineering at Furness College, said the scholarship has been successful in supporting SMEs who want their staff to upskill but don’t have the financial ability to pay for their university education.
“For many people, a degree can seem out of reach but through the Ørsted scholarship there is a chance to achieve this,” she said. “Some people think this scholarship is too good to be true but it’s a genuine scheme by Ørsted to support local people into their dream careers.
“Learners can study full-time or through day release from their employer and it’s a win-win as they can take their skills straight back into the business and everyone sees the benefits straight away.”
“It is a really good way for employers to grow their workforce through educating forward-thinking employees.”
Applications to the scholarship are open now and those who are successful will start in September 2022. The courses available with support range from a national diploma to HNC right through to an Honours degree in mechanical or electrical engineering. The Engineering Bridging Course is now also eligible for funding.
Imran Nawaz, Stakeholder Advisor & Community Benefit Fund Manager for Ørsted, said: “There are so many exciting and fulfilling career paths that can be unlocked though engineering courses. It’s important that we encourage new talent wherever possible, so we are delighted that we are able to help support students of all ages and backgrounds through our partnership with Furness College.”
Applications to the scholarship are open now. Individuals who are not in full-time employment or who wish to retrain in engineering may be eligible to apply. For a full list of criteria or to find out more, email businesssupport@furness.ac.uk.
Case study – Ørsted scholarship recipient 2021-2022
James Tracey successfully applied for the Ørsted scholarship after completing his HNC in electrical engineering at the Channelside campus. He now works for Furness Engineering and Technology Ltd who offer day release to help him complete his degree.
NAME: James Tracey
COMPANY: Furness Engineering and Technology Ltd (FETL)
JOB TITLE: Senior CE&I Draughtsman
COURSE: BEng (Hons) in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Why did you choose Furness College/this course?
I chose the course due to it being the best option to further my career in electrical engineering. Furness College offered the opportunity to continue studying while working, and at a local college on a high-quality course, it pretty much ticked all the boxes.
- What is your background prior to starting this course?
I have been working as a CE&I Draughtsman at FETL for 6 years now, completing my apprenticeship and HNC during that time, starting this course in 2019.
- What are the benefits of studying at Furness College?
Some of the main benefits of Furness College I have noticed is that it is more seminar based rather than lectures, so there is more 1-on-1 time with the tutor and plenty of peer support from other students. Being local, it is a great fit for a part-time engineering course while working.
- What have you enjoyed the most about your time at Furness College?
Group tasks with other students have been the most enjoyable parts of the course for me, especially any that utilise the workshop on the ground floor of the Advanced Manufacturing and Technology Centre.
- Did you have any preconceptions about what studying at Furness College would be like/have they been founded?
I didn’t have any about the college in particular, just that the course itself would be difficult, and to be fair it has been, but with the support from tutors and other students I’ve been doing well and I’m on track for a 1st class Honours degree overall.
- What would you say to encourage others to apply to study HE courses at Furness College?
It’s a really supportive environment to study, and perfect if you’re working in the area.
- What’s your career goal?
My goal is to progress into design, and from the modules in my course I have found an interest in electronic control systems.
- How has studying helped you get closer to your goal?
Obtaining the degree will be a huge step in advancing my career, and I would not have found an interest in electronic control systems if I hadn’t been introduced on the course itself.