Future Cast opens €1m training centre for mechanical and electrical trades
A €1 million training centre for mechanical and electrical trades is to open in a previously derelict property in the centre of Ballaghaderreen in Co. Roscommon.
Previously a derelict property at the Mill Business Park in Ballaghaderreen, the Mechanical and Electrical Training and Assessment Centre (METAC) is a purpose-built training and assessment hub with state-of-the-art equipment, classrooms, and dedicated workshop spaces.
It is hoped that METAC will breathe new life into a region, which has experienced job losses from the closure of Bord na Mona peat-burning power stations, by re-skilling locals for the future of work.
METAC is funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the EU Just Transition Fund (EUJTF). Through the EUJTF Local and Regional Economic Strategies Support scheme within this Fund, which is administered by Pobal, the EUJTF contributed €800,000 to the cost of the centre with €200,000 coming from industry companies. The Fund was set up to support workers impacted by the transition away from fossil fuel industries.
The project was led by Future Cast, a not-for-profit centre for innovation, education and search and development for the construction, manufacturing and quarrying industries.
METAC is designed to advance skills development, professional certification and innovation across the construction and engineering sectors. METAC offers programmes in electrical safety, automation, robotics, engineering and design software, mechanical systems and advanced welding. Training is delivered by a combination of Future Cast trainers, industry specialists, and QQI-certified providers.
Future Cast CEO JJ O’Hara said: “The opening of our new METAC training centre is a tangible example of what can be achieved when local innovation meets national support… This centre is about more than just skills development – it’s about creating real opportunities for local people. Thanks to the support of the EU Just Transition Fund and Pobal, we are equipping communities and workers with the tools to shape a more sustainable and resilient future.”
Clare Bannon, acting director of the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly, managing authority of the EU Just Transition Fund programme, said: “Educating, retraining and upskilling individuals will help to bring job opportunities and economic diversification to communities of a region that has historically depended on the peat industry. Training programmes like this, which enable diverse and local communities to adapt and thrive in in-demand sectors, are crucial for ensuring an inclusive green and digital transition.”
Pobal CEO Anna Shakespeare said: “The establishment of this modern training facility is expected to have a positive impact on the regional economy by fostering job creation and supporting the diversification of livelihoods. We particularly welcome the centre’s focus on the migrant community in the region, which reflects a strong, long-term commitment to inclusive development and to reaching those most vulnerable and affected by unjust transitions.”
TechCentral Reporters
Subscribers 0
Fans 0
Followers 0
Followers