Skills
High value skills, high productivity. These are the strengths of the Welsh economy that have driven inward investment over the past few decades and which make the country the natural location for ambitious automotive businesses.
While the UK itself has one of the best track records in Europe for skills, qualifications and industrial relations, Wales itself is at the forefront of those statistics. Its long industrial heritage is the backbone to its engineering knowledge base – now supplemented by 30,000 graduates a year coming out of our Universities, keen to apply their new-found skills with forward-looking businesses.
Moreover, Wales’ universities work closely with the automotive sector to ensure that a flow of well trained engineers enters the workplace each year dedicated to the evolving needs of industry: Swansea Institute, in particular, which introduced the world’s first Motorsport degree, is now offering a Motorsport Manufacturing degree.
Some 25,000 people already work in the automotive sector; and, on top of this, automotive businesses in Wales can access a comprehensive skills and training and workforce development package, backed by funding to support recruitment and skills enhancement – all delivered through Wales’ own Automotive Academy.
Discretionary funding of up to £50,000 may be available, while bespoke packages can attract a 25% contribution.
The low cost of living in Wales and superb quality of life on offer makes it easy to attract, and retain, specialist skills from other regions. And for those businesses relocating here, what better incentive do you need than a first class living and working environment – with excellent schools, vibrant cities and towns and one of the best natural environments in Europe.
“We chose Wales because of the skilled workforce and the level of support and advice received from the Welsh Assembly Government and its International Business Wales team.”
Nick Thomas, Commercial Director, Takao Europe Manufacturing
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