A new chapter in engineering education has begun in Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, with the official launch of the AF Switchgear Academy – a collaborative initiative between
West Nottinghamshire College and
AF Switchgear, the UK’s largest privately-owned manufacturer of low voltage switchgear and control panels.
The academy builds on more than eight years of partnership between the college and the company, which has seen the development of skilled engineers through apprenticeships, work placements and technical training. Now this relationship has evolved into a dedicated training programme designed to prepare students for careers in the design, manufacture and installation of low voltage switchgear – a critical component in the energy, infrastructure and manufacturing sectors.
Delivered through a five-day programme that combines classroom learning with on-site experience, the academy offers full-time electrical engineering students the chance to work alongside professionals at AF Switchgear’s headquarters. The course, certified by AF Switchgear, introduces students to the technical and theoretical principles of switchgear manufacture, while providing valuable insight into industry standards and workplace culture. Participation may also lead to full-time apprenticeships at the company.
Dedicated workshop facilityThe pilot group is set to begin in November, with training split between AF Switchgear’s HQ and a dedicated workshop facility at the college’s engineering campus. Up to four courses will run each academic year, with students selected based on their aptitude, ability and progress. Teaching will be delivered by AF Switchgear staff, supported by college educators.
Benjamin Toule, head of engineering at West Nottinghamshire College, said: “The launch of the academy marks another step in the successful partnership between the college and AF Switchgear. Through strong collaboration with our industry partners, we’re creating a learning environment that goes far beyond traditional qualifications, offering hands-on experience, technical training, and real-world exposure that prepares learners for meaningful and sustainable careers. It not only raises awareness of the vital role the switchgear industry plays in powering and protecting modern life but also highlights how education and industry can work together to drive opportunity and growth.”
AF Switchgear has long demonstrated its commitment to workforce development, consistently recruiting apprentices through the college and supporting them throughout their training. Every apprentice who completes their programme is offered a permanent position, with many progressing into senior roles, including management and director-level posts. Mike Ratcliffe, operations manager at AF Switchgear, said: “Career progression and individual personal development is key, with apprenticeships being acknowledged as the lifeblood of the company as they provide a pathway for employees to acquire valuable skills while contributing to the growth and success of the business.”
The Academy is based at the college’s
Gene Haas Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and benefits from AF Switchgear’s wider support for education. The company has donated specialist switchgear equipment to the college, enabling students across all engineering disciplines to gain hands-on experience with industry-standard technology.
Training opportunitiesIn addition to supporting new talent, AF Switchgear is also investing in its existing workforce. Staff are benefitting from training opportunities through the college, including a newly introduced Level 3 Award in Industrial and Panel Wiring. Designed in conjunction with the company, this 12-week part-time course equips employees with the skills to identify key principles and components used in constructing electrical panels, as well as techniques for inspection, testing and commissioning.
The AF Switchgear Academy was formally unveiled on 20th October at a launch event attended by college and company leaders, apprentices, governors, local dignitaries, employers and representatives from industry bodies including the Joint Industry Board (JIB), the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS), and the Electrical Contractors Association (ECA). The event featured speeches from Mike Ratcliffe, college principal Andrew Cropley, and Keith Sanderson, head of skills delivery at the ECA, followed by a tour of the facilities.
Andy Reakes, chief operating officer at JIB and ECS, said: “The AF Switchgear Academy is a fantastic starting point for aspiring engineers to gain exposure to real industry practice and understand what really happens in the workplace. It’s through structured apprenticeships and nationally-recognised vocational qualifications that individuals develop the skills, knowledge, and experience to be acknowledged as qualified professionals. The JIB and ECS are proud to support pathways that uphold those standards and lead to Gold Card status as a mark of competence and commitment within our industry.”
Keith Sanderson added: “Practical training is critical to ensuring that the next generation of electrotechnical engineers are competent, professional and reliable to meet the demand of the UK as it continues on its path to electrification. It’s really good to see AF Switchgear, one of ECA’s members, working with others in its community to address the skills gap and offer career opportunities that will be vital to economic growth in the area.”
The Academy forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen skills and innovation in the local engineering sector, supporting developments such as the Ashfield Innovation Technology Park and the Automated Distribution and Manufacturing Centre (ADMC). It complements AF Switchgear’s annual apprenticeship recruitment drive, which attracts up to 100 people at Open Evenings and results in around 10 new apprenticeships each year across electrical engineering, accounts and customer service.