University College Birmingham (UCB) has officially launched the UK’s first fully accredited Battery Manufacturing Skills Pathway (B-MSP).
Developed in response to the growing demand for skilled professionals in battery manufacturing, this innovative programme aims to bridge the industry’s skills gap while supporting the nation’s transition to net zero.
Rt Hon Lord Hunt of Kings Heath OBE, Minister of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, emphasised the significance of the initiative: “Every wind turbine we put up, every solar panel we install, every battery storage facility we construct helps protect families from future energy shocks.
“Storing energy is key to reaching clean power by 2030 and building an energy system that can bring down energy bills for good.
“The Birmingham Battery Manufacturing Skills Pathway is at the forefront of equipping the battery manufacturing workforce with the expertise needed to power a sustainable future.”
A tailored solution for a growing industry
The B-MSP, accredited by City & Guilds, provides a flexible and scalable training solution designed to cater to both small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large-scale gigafactories.
As the UK ramps up efforts to strengthen its battery manufacturing sector, the programme ensures a steady talent pipeline across key industries, including automotive, marine, defence, portable electronics, and construction.
Industry-backed training for a sustainable future
The B-MSP was made possible through funding from UK Research and Innovation’s (UKRI) Faraday Battery Challenge, delivered by Innovate UK.
Developed in collaboration with industry leaders such as Microsoft, Atlas Copco, Rockwell Automation, Jaguar Land Rover, Pi-Kem, Delta Cosworth, and Yazaki, the programme integrates cutting-edge technology and industry insights to deliver practical, hands-on training.
To ensure alignment with real-world battery production needs, the initiative has received strategic guidance from an advisory board featuring key representatives from the Electrification Skills Network (ESN), the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre (UKBIC), the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), the West Midlands Combined Authority, and the Greater Birmingham & Solihull Institute of Technology (GBSIOT).
Empowering employers and employees
For businesses, the B-MSP reduces onboarding time by equipping trainees with real-world competence and technical expertise.
The programme leverages advanced technologies such as AR/VR simulations and virtual environments, combined with hands-on training, to develop practical skills that align with industry needs.
For employees, the structured curriculum offers nationally recognised qualifications, enabling trainees to confidently step into battery manufacturing roles with industry-approved skills and experience.
Pritti Shoker, B-MSP Project Manager, added: “We’re delighted to be introducing the programme and look forward to welcoming the first trainees through the door later this year.
“Crucial to the success of this programme is the vital support we’ve received from our partners at Cranfield University, RAVMAC and WMG at the University of Warwick, with funding secured from UKRI’s Faraday Battery Challenge, delivered by Innovate UK.
“Their support, coupled with our facilities and expertise, means we can deliver this innovative training programme that seeks to bridge the skills gap and serve as a gateway to electrification careers across multiple industries.”
Strengthening the UK’s battery manufacturing industry
As global competition in battery manufacturing intensifies, the B-MSP provides an accessible route into skilled engineering and manufacturing careers.
Designed to support career changers, new entrants, and underrepresented groups, the programme plays a crucial role in sustaining the UK’s battery value chain.
Following three rigorous testing stages, the B-MSP is set to go live in April, offering trainees nationwide access to online pre-learning courses.
This milestone marks a significant step forward in the UK’s journey towards a sustainable, high-tech manufacturing future.
