Trudy Harrison has praised a new training facility aimed to inspire local young people to take up a career in nuclear.
This week Trudy visited Lakes College for a tour of its National College for Nuclear, which is set to officially open its doors next month.
The site, which is one of two training facilities – the second based at Bridgewater in Somerset - will work with local schools, colleges and universities, including University of Cumbria and Bristol University as well as Sellafield Ltd and EDF Energy setting rigorous training standards and providing inspiration to local young people to take up careers in nuclear.
Featuring virtual reality suites, the facilities allow learners to experience nuclear installations in a virtual environment, science and radiation laboratories and specialised design and modelling suites.
Mrs Harrison, said: “Visiting the first-class facilities and learning of the collaborations with Sellafield, University of Cumbria EDF Energy and University of Bristol - the College compliments the wealth of technical training facilities and job opportunities in our area, making apprenticeships across all levels easier to access – a huge congratulations to everyone involved.”
The National College for Nuclear is aiming to engage over 7,000 learners across both facilities by 2020.
Chris Nattress, Principal Lakes College, said: “This is a very significant and prestigious development for our area I am delighted that Lakes College is a founding member of the National College for Nuclear, particularly as it will provide excellent national opportunities for our region.
“There are far reaching benefits from having such a prestigious national college with a key base here in West Cumbria, reflecting our important nuclear heritage, and the proposals for nuclear new build developments."
