01.10.19
Rail college rebrand to reflect growing demand of rail sector
The National College for High Speed Rail is getting a fresh new look, after it announced today that it is rebranding to the National College for Advanced Transport & Infrastructure (NCATI).
The college has been serving the rail industry’s shortcomings and providing specialist training and education since it opened in 2017.
The name change aims to reflect the broader sphere of activity of the college, which is widening its scope to meet growing demand across the sector, including transport and infrastructure.
The decision came between April and May of this year, when a meeting with a range of stakeholders, including learners, staff and representatives in the industry was held to discuss the College’s name and if it was still a fair representation of the vast offering and increased opportunities across both its Birmingham and Doncaster sites.
Chief Executive of the NCATI, Clair Mowbray, said:
“We were delighted with the response to our consultation earlier this year, and I’m thrilled to be able to unveil our new name today.
“As an employer-led college, it’s key that we ensure that the skills we equip our learners with meet the demands and the skills shortages of the broader advanced transport and infrastructure sector.
“The latest figures published by the Strategic Transport Apprenticeship Taskforce estimate that 50,000 more people are needed in rail; 41,000 to fill roles on the road network; and 180,000 to deliver the Heathrow Expansion project. There is huge demand across the sectors and the name change reflects our dedication to delivering and developing our curriculum to meet industry demands.”
NCATI specialist pathways are already being developed and delivered to meet the needs of ongoing projects such as High-Speed Rail and Northern Powerhouse Rail - to maintain the college’s strong position in the industry and be ready to change with any industry changes.
Pictured: Rebranding
Clair added:
“Across both transport and infrastructure sectors the use of modern techniques, digitalisation and the latest technology is becoming increasingly prevalent, with a growing demand from industry for a highly technical skillset, which the College is ideally placed to deliver. The nature of the work across the sectors is changing, and our new name now reflects the great opportunity available within the industry.”
The name change will be immediate; however, the new identity will be rolled out across Birmingham and Doncaster sites over the next few months.