NEF Masterclasses: A big hit with companies & colleges

If you haven’t taken advantage of the NEF Masterclasses programme then it is time to do so. Check out what you have missed!

Advances in Automation at ABB Robotics – 9 January

Delegates were welcomed to the ABB Robotics Training Centre by BARA (British Automation and Robot Association) Chair and ABB General Sales Manager Mike Wilson. Mike’s presentation explained the impact of robotics on UK industry, and offered surprising facts and views including the uptake of robots results in increased number of jobs as well as productivity and that the greatest barrier to take up of robotics, according to employers, is lack of skills and know-how. The message, however, was not “teach robotics” but rather teach good engineering and understanding of commercial and financial basics. Demonstrations of RobotStudio by ABB trainers gave the delegates ideas on how to introduce awareness of robotics into mainstream engineering related curriculum, and an exciting hands-on session programming and controlling ABB robots proved to be a big hit with all. Delegates took away information and links to teaching resources, as well as increased awareness of the issues and benefits of industrial robotics.

“NEF is providing an invaluable link between industry and FE colleges so that colleges can keep up with development in industry to equip and train college staff with the latest thinking and resources.” Sanjay Suri, Uxbridge College

“Thank you! The link between colleges and industry is so desperately needed.” Sanyade Adekoya, College of North West London

READ MORE ABOUT THIS MASTERCLASS HERE

Innovative Digital Technologies at C4DI Beta – 28 January

This Masterclass followed a slightly different format to our usual Masterclasses as C4DI is a centre for collaboration in innovative digital technologies. The speakers represented a wide variety of digital applications, including core programming, data analysis to global brand management. David Keele of Trident offered a very fresh view of what might be considered principally a graphics and packaging company: “we are really a data management organisation”. His long view of future applications of digital technologies and how they will impact retail and web design was an eye-opener. Jon Moss explained the special conditions in Hull that is conducive to the technological revolution happening there, and this linked to the talk on data analytics and big data and a presentation on applications of augmented reality. Delegates appreciated a hands-on talk on object oriented design as something they could take away to apply immediately.

 “Very well done! I really enjoyed all the presentations and the overall very positive environment.” Nick Taylor, South Cheshire College

“Excellent! Great variety of input, good speakers and really up to date information and ideas.” Maria Bell, Barnet & Southgate.

READ MORE ABOUT THIS MASTERCLASS HERE

Impact of BIM on Construction at Costain – 27 February

As the government looks to ensure that Building Information Modelling (BIM) is used on all centrally procured projects by 2016, the need to train future BIM users to an accepted industry standard cannot be overestimated. BIM and 3D modelling are a vital part of the design, construction, maintenance and operation process, both in the planning and execution of projects, but becoming technically proficient on BIM in the classroom can be quite different to what is expected on a live project.  

That is why Costain hosted the NEF Masterclass to focus on BIM. Speakers included Matt Blackwell, Head of BIM at Costain , Sandra Reis and Bryn Evans, Costain’s Senior BIM Technicians. They spoke about BIM strategies, 4D and 5D modelling and illuminated the session with a live BIM demonstration. Harrison O’Hara, a Mobile BIM Technician explained the capabilities of mobile technology in the industry and provided recommendations for future implementation.

READ MORE ABOUT THIS MASTERCLASS HERE

Don’t miss out on such unique opportunities for technical professional development. Attendance at these events are heavily subsidised by the Gatsby Foundation and only cost £72 + VAT per delegate. Register your place on a forthcoming Masterclass by visiting www.thenef.org.uk/events or contacting Robyn Burriss on:  robyn.burriss@thenef.org.uk.