Last week, a new Centre for Green Technology was formally opened in the city of Peterborough. This is an historic investment in sustainable education and workforce development. The facility prepares students through hands-on experience with cutting-edge green technologies. This training comes in direct response to the climate crisis-driven growing demand for professionals in this emerging field. The launch event drew local dignitaries as well as representatives from area colleges and universities.
BBC News reporter Emma Baugh memorialized the momentous occasion with a big batch of awesome photos. Her photos really capture the buzz about the opening. One of her photos depicts Oliver, one of the young students who spend their days at the center. He clutches a black metal pipe with pride while wearing his blue hi-vis vest and name badge. In a second scene, conductor for the evening Rachel Nicholls was hard to miss in a bright red jacket. She wore it with a matching fancy red floral shirt, which was a great contrast. Baugh captured a parade of dignitaries who took part in the ceremony, a testament to this tightknit community’s support for this major step forward.
The centre’s mission is to engage and inspire young people to consider careers working with green technology. Baroness Taylor commented on the role that colleges have in inspiring learners to pursue these industries.
“The Centre for Green Technology represents far more than the launch of a new facility – it’s a bold statement of intent. It shows what’s possible when ambition meets investment, and when education leads from the front.” – Rachel Nicholls
The facility is designed to foster a culture in which students learn hands-on skills that meet industry needs. Nicholls stressed the centre’s importance to the promotion of the inclusive and sustainable growth agenda.
“Colleges like this, whether it is in green technology or other fields, are magnificent at doing that [involving, encouraging and enthusing young people with jobs].” – Baroness Taylor
Paul Bristow, a central speaker at the event with the Combined Authority, underlined their importance. He emphasized its role in leading workforce development efforts across the state.
“It reflected a commitment to creating campuses of the future, where learners gain the skills they need, employers find the talent they’re looking for and communities benefit from inclusive, sustainable growth.” – Rachel Nicholls
Bristow said he was hopeful about the possible influence of the centre on creation of new jobs.
“Few people are aware that the Combined Authority has a big role on skills.” – Paul Bristow
Oliver painted pictures while talking about his own experiences at the arts center. Perhaps most valuably, he pointed to the way it has increased his self-assurance in plumbing, despite daunting job prospects.
“I want our skills funding to mean two things: getting a job and getting a better job. Given its close links with employers, the Centre should be a real boost for Peterborough and the region.” – Paul Bristow
Oliver shared his personal experience at the centre, noting how it has helped build his confidence in plumbing amidst challenging job prospects.
“Everyone’s finding it quite hard [to get jobs] but it is giving me a lot of confidence doing my plumbing here.” – Oliver
