The
DTI has launched a £2.8m training scheme to increase the skills and numbers of
printed circuit board (PCB) designers.
The
initiative, launched by E-commerce Minister Douglas Alexander, aims to increase
career opportunities in PCB design and maintain the UK’s position as a world
leader in the £45bn industry.
The
PCB design scheme, which is jointly funded by the DTI and industry, will also
help improve the skills base of those training and already working in the
sector.
The
UK is home to 40 per cent of all independent PCB design houses in Europe and
the DTI wants to see another 500 designers recruited over the next four years
to help maintain this position.
"The
UK is a world leader in the electronics industry with a highly skilled
workforce. If we are to maintain our position as a major global player we must
meet the demands of an expanding market. This scheme will develop skilled
people to support the rapid technological advancements of today," said
Alexander.
The
PCB design training centres are expected to be based at six educational
establishments in Edinburgh, Glamorgan, Belfast, Bolton, London and Newbury.
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