Apprentices plug into digital tools in manufacturing skills drive

Apprentices across the west of Scotland are gaining hands-on experience with the digital technologies shaping the future of manufacturing, through a collaboration between the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), West College Scotland, and Ailsa Reliability Solutions Ltd.

The initiative forms part of the Data-Driven Design and Manufacturing CoLab (D3M_CoLab) programme, which is led by NMIS, operated by the University of Strathclyde. The project supports companies to lead their own data-driven projects aimed at solving industrial challenges, boosting productivity, and increasing competitiveness.

Employees are upskilled through targeted workforce development courses, equipping them with the skills to manage projects independently, with support from CoLab’s team of data scientists as needed.

Running until March 2026, the training programme centres on condition monitoring – using sensors and digital systems to assess machine health and detect early signs of failure. These insights help reduce unplanned downtime, lower maintenance costs, and support more sustainable manufacturing by minimising energy waste and extending equipment life.

As part of the collaboration, Ailsa Reliability has developed a bespoke fan skid – specialist demonstrator equipment designed to simulate real-world manufacturing conditions. Installed at West College Scotland, as part of the College Local Innovation Centre (CLIC), the setup enables apprentices to gain practical experience fitting sensors, collecting data, and analysing results using professional software. It is currently being used across a range of courses at SCQF Levels 5-7.

By combining experiential learning with technical insight, the programme is helping equip early-career engineers with the skills and mindset to solve complex problems and contribute to a more resilient manufacturing workforce.

Andrew Sherlock, director of data-driven manufacturing at NMIS, said: “The real value of this programme is in empowering people to tackle challenges in their own workplaces using data. We’re not just teaching digital skills – we’re identifying where improvements can be made and giving individuals the training and support they need to lead those changes themselves. For apprentices, this means learning how to think critically and use data effectively, and build the confidence to make informed decisions on the shop floor and beyond.”

According to the UK Innovation Report 2025[1], manufacturers are increasingly exploring AI, robotics, and data analytics to boost efficiency and drive innovation. However, adoption remains uneven, with only 45% of companies having fully implemented digital tools. Despite this, 86% believe that embracing digital technologies is essential to staying competitive.  

Jenni Doonan, head of business development & innovation at West College Scotland, said: “This partnership shows how colleges and industry can work together to create practical, forward-thinking training. By combining our teaching expertise with insight from NMIS and Ailsa Reliability, we’re giving apprentices real-world experience with the tools and approaches they’ll use on the job. It’s about more than technical skills – it also builds confidence, problem-solving, and adaptability, which are just as important in the workplace.”

Jamie Burns, managing director at Ailsa Reliability, added: “We’re always looking for ways to improve the sectors we operate in by helping companies make better use of data through industrial IoT and condition monitoring. Building knowledge and hands-on skills in these areas can reduce downtime, cut waste, and improve efficiency. Our partnership with NMIS and West College Scotland is a great way to develop these strengths and support more sustainable, future-ready businesses.”

In addition to the apprenticeship training, West College Scotland will also host a dedicated initiative in partnership with NMIS, focused on supporting SMEs across Renfrewshire, West Dumbartonshire, and Inverclyde. Tailored for technicians and shop-floor staff, it aims to help participants use their own operational data to identify issues and improve productivity.

D3M_Colab is part of the Glasgow City Region Innovation Accelerator programme, funded through Innovate UK.

[1]https://www.ciip.group.cam.ac.uk/2025-uk-innovation-report-unveiled-at-a-pivotal-moment-for-industrial-strategy/