Murphy encourages applications to second Electrical Switchgear Academy with Vertiv

Economy Minister Conor Murphy has announced a second Electrical Switchgear Assured Skills Academy with Vertiv.

Electrical Switchgear Assured Skills Academy.

Fully funded by the Department for the Economy, this Academy will see 15 participants undertake seven weeks of training working towards a Level 2 entry level qualification in Electrical Installation (EAL) for work in the electrical switchgear sector.

The Academy will be delivered at North West Regional College (NWRC) and at Vertiv’s Derry site, blending college learning with experience in a working environment.

The Minister said: “This is a great opportunity for those with an interest in a career in electrical installation to join a global provider.

“As there is no experience required, this Academy is open to those who are just starting out on their career journey. It is also an opportunity for those who wish to retrain or return to the workforce.

“With a weekly training allowance of £175 and assistance for travel expenses and childcare costs I encourage anyone who is interested to apply.”

Sinead Hawkins, Business Skills Manager at NWRC, said: “North West Regional College is delighted to be able to support Vertiv with their continued growth in the North West. Our Assured Skills Academy will provide skills training in electrical and mechanical installation. The Academy guarantees at least a job interview for people who complete the training, which provides a direct lead into employment. We look forward to delivering this training to participants and equipping them with the skills they need to excel in their future career.”

Philip O’ Doherty, Managing Director at Vertiv, said: “This Assured Skills Academy, supported by the Department for the Economy, offers a vital contribution to the North West region by providing industry standard pre-employment training in Electrical Switchgear. As a local employer, we are delighted to offer this opportunity for participants to work towards much sought-after qualifications in electrical installation.”

Whilst no experience is required, applicants for the Academy must be at least 18 years old and be eligible to work in the UK.

Applications for the Electrical Switchgear Academy are now open and close at midnight on Wednesday 11 September 2024.

More information and how to apply can be obtained on the nidirect website of by emailing www.assuredskills@economy-ni.gov.uk

Notes to editors: 

1. Assured Skills is a pre-employment training programme run by the Department for the Economy. More information is available on the Department's Assured Skills programme page.
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