Marvin OnumonuThe College Merthyr Tydfil has partnered with General Dynamics to set up an engineering academy to train people for jobs in advanced manufacturing and the defence industry.
The academy will open in September 2025 and aims to give learners hands-on experience with real industry tools and systems, along with site visits, guest speakers and live projects.
Lisa Thomas, college principal at College Merthyr Tydfil, said: “This partnership is about more than just education—it’s about shaping the future workforce.
“We already have excellent relationships with General Dynamics through the apprenticeship programme that they offer to our learners through Tydfil Training and the Merthyr Tydfil Aspire Shared Apprenticeship Scheme.
“By collaborating with them on this academy, we’re taking this one step further and giving our learners access to real-life engineering challenges and the opportunity to develop the technical and professional skills that employers in the defence and manufacturing sectors are looking for.”
Liana James, employability and enterprise co-ordinator at the College Merthyr Tydfil, said: “The Engineering Academy will offer a range of guest speaker talks, site visits, live projects and opportunities all designed to prepare learners for high-value careers in advanced manufacturing and defence engineering.”
The partnership also includes training for General Dynamics staff through the college’s personal learning account scheme.
Staff will be able to take up training in digital and green manufacturing, systems engineering and leadership.
Jonathan Davies, head of advanced manufacturing and built environment at the College Merthyr Tydfil, said: “We’re proud to be working with a forward-thinking organisation like General Dynamics.
“Together, we’re not only investing in the next generation of engineers but also supporting the continuous development of those already making a difference in the industry.”
General Dynamics will support the academy as part of its work to help create a skilled workforce in the sector.
Scott Milne, vice president and general manager at General Dynamics UK, said: “At General Dynamics, we are deeply committed to fostering innovation and excellence through collaboration.
“Our partnership with The College Merthyr Tydfil represents a shared vision for the future—one where education and industry work hand-in-hand to empower the next generation of engineers.
“The Engineering Academy is not just an investment in skills, but in the people and communities that will drive the UK’s defence and manufacturing sectors forward.”
Milne added: “We are proud to support this initiative and look forward to seeing the incredible talent it will nurture.”
Nick Williams, head of strategy and business development at General Dynamics, said: “At General Dynamics, we are especially passionate about giving young people meaningful opportunities to thrive in engineering and advanced manufacturing.
“The Engineering Academy is a testament to that commitment.
“By working closely with The College Merthyr Tydfil, we’re not only helping shape a future-ready workforce but also inspiring the next generation to lead with innovation, purpose, and pride in their contribution to the UK’s defence sector.”
