The electronics industry faces a pressing challenge: a growing gap between academic education and practical skills. In a discussion at Southern Manufacturing & Electronics, EPDT’s Mike Green and John Vickers of Advanced Rework Technology Limited highlighted the urgent need for better hands-on training for electronics graduates.
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Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice
While many graduates leave university with strong theoretical knowledge, employers frequently find they lack essential practical skills. According to John, companies are struggling to hire staff with real-world experience in soldering, PCB assembly, and electronics manufacturing processes. This shortage is placing additional strain on businesses, forcing them to invest in extensive in-house training.
The Role of Specialist Training Providers
Training organisations like Advanced Rework Technology play a crucial role in addressing this issue. By offering bespoke electronics training and IPC certification, they equip professionals with industry-standard competencies, ensuring graduates are job-ready. Without this additional support, many new entrants struggle to meet the expectations of employers in manufacturing and repair sectors.
A Call for Industry and Academic Collaboration
John emphasises the importance of closer collaboration between universities, employers, and training providers. By integrating more practical modules into electronics courses, universities can help graduates develop the hands-on expertise they need to succeed.
The Future of Electronics Training
As the industry evolves, the demand for skilled professionals will only increase. Investing in practical training and up-to-date industry standards is essential to sustaining innovation and competitiveness in UK electronics manufacturing. Initiatives that strengthen the connection between education and industry will play a vital role in overcoming the skills gap.
For those looking to gain hands-on expertise and industry-recognised credentials, training programmes like Advanced Rework Technology’s IPC certification courses provide a valuable stepping stone into the workforce.
