Tridonic UK Academy launch success

Tridonic is delighted to announce the recruitment of James Trudgill, a 21-year-old student and the first graduate of the Academy to join the Spennymoor team. Working in partnership with New College Durham, the education scheme is designed to deliver and develop vital skills across the electronics industry, with the objective of attracting young talent into manufacturing careers

Since September 2024, students have been able to access a level 2 electronics course at New College. The 1^st year course led by Tina Taylor, Ideas & Training Coordinator at Tridonic UK, is specifically an EAL Level 2 Diploma in Engineering Operations with a Mechanical and Electrical Bias. This has recently been confirmed as a 5-year programme, with trainers Joe Jameson and Alison Cox ready to teach 2^nd year students from September 2025. This will provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in the engineering industry.

The Academy was designed to bridge the gap between education and employment by offering students hands-on training in key manufacturing principles and skills, including hand soldering and NXT FUJI machine operation. Through the partnership, students like James have benefitted from first-hand experience of real-world engineering and manufacturing environments. This is vital component of Tridonic’s wider long-term workforce strategy.

James Trudgill Operator at Tridonic UK shared his experience of the programme: “It was very informative and very practical – in fact, it was my most enjoyable lesson of the day, and the trainer was excellent. I felt I had everything I needed to help with my training – the soldering and machine training gave me the opportunity to prepare for the start of my new role. Everyone at the Spennymoor facility has been very friendly, and I can chat with all the operators, I’ve been made to feel relaxed.”

Looking ahead, James is already setting goals for his future: “I want to work on my leadership skills through courses and guidance from staff. My first goal is to become a cell leader at Tridonic.”

Ben Kennard, Manufacturing and Supply Chain Manager at Tridonic UK added: “We’re thrilled to see James thriving in his new role. His success is a testament to the value of the Academy, and we look forward to welcoming more students into the programme over many years to come.”

By investing in the Tridonic Academy, the company is not only supporting the next generation of manufacturing professionals but also ensuring a smoother transition from education to employment. The Academy model allows Tridonic to tailor training to its specific needs, creating a pipeline of skilled, motivated, and well-prepared candidates in the North East of England.