Merseyside’s Engineering College has expanded its team of technical tutors by appointing a highly experienced welding specialist.

Brian Bowers has taken up the role of welding, fabrication and pipe-fitting tutor, and he will be responsible for new apprentices. He started his career in Birkenhead, serving his apprenticeship at Cammell Laird Shipbuilders between 1983 and 1987.

He worked on submarines and surface ships as a welder; he has since worked for BAE Systems and Airbus UK.

Mr Bowers said: “It’s terrific to be back on Merseyside, working at the Engineering College. I am keen to pass on the knowledge I have gained in my 30-plus years in industry and to teach a new generation of engineers what it takes to be successful.

"This is a really exciting time to join the Engineering College — with its ambitious plans — and I am greatly looking forward to joining the team.”

The college is currently looking to add two more training officers to its team of 38 staff. It is witnessing strong growth, with apprentice numbers recently rising to 330 (www.theengineeringcollege.co.uk).

These are drawn from around 90 client companies. ranging from large businesses to SMEs in many sectors — including construction, nuclear, petrochemical, renewable energy, oil and gas, and maritime.

College CEO Terry Weston said: “It is crucial for the Engineering College to take on the very best new staff. Brian brings with him a wealth of experience, both through his time at some of the UK’s most respected engineering businesses and from his long service in the Army Reserves.”