Email News August 2009
Foreword
Welcome to the August issue of email news. This month's issue looks at a range of important issues for marine businesses. It includes details of the new CWEB system, an online database that can be used for free by companies wishing to recruit staff as well as people seeking new employment. We also have updates on development projects such as Hythe Marine Park and Southampton Port. Read on to find out more...
Posted 2009-04-01 08:51:18
New system matches employers with skilled workers facing redundancy
Are you at risk of redundancy and looking for new employment? Are you an employer looking for skilled workers to fill your vacancy?
If so, Marine South East and the Farnborough Aerospace Consortium are helping employees facing redundancy get back on their feet more quickly and help employers make the most of these potentially wasted skills.
They have set up a database of job opportunities. Employers can post vacancies and employees at risk of redundancy can register their details. This results in a "shop window" where employers seeking to recruit can see those seeking jobs and vice-versa. The system is completely free of charge.
The initial need for the programme came about following the 9/11 attacks in the USA, when the aerospace industry imploded virtually overnight with job losses into the 10's of thousands globally. There was no dedicated mechanism in place to capture the talent pool of people leaving companies and redeploy them into similar or compatible jobs. In other words, highly skilled talent in most cases was lost to the sector for ever.
The aim is not to duplicate what is already in place, but to engage with employers who for whatever reason have kept clear of the whole "messy and complex" skills and funding arena. The project will help companies that have shied away from the benefits of public sector investment.
To find out more contact Richard Smith on 07791 722242 or 01962 771149, alternatively email richard.smith@wincon.co.uk
Posted 2009-07-14 09:46:12
New facility at Southampton City College set to boost aluminium boat building industry
The Rt Hon John Denham, MP for Southampton Itchen and Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, opened a new aluminium welding facility at Southampton City College last month. The facility, located within City Welding School on the main campus, is set to benefit the south coast’s boat building industry, where a shortage of skilled aluminium welders has been an issue for some time.
City College will now be offering a completely new welding course, which is the first of its kind in the Solent region. The aluminium welding course is unique as the methodologies will be taught for plating in excess of 40mm in thickness which will require modern techniques being taught to ensure full penetration welds.
The course was established in a partnership between City College and south coast boat builders to cater for local demand for specialised skills in the aluminium boat building industry. The 16 week aluminium welding course was set up to provide employers with a highly-qualified workforce of welders trained in the most relevant and technologically up-to-date skills. City College worked in conjunction with companies such as South Boats on the Isle of Wight, Palmer Johnson Yachts and Burgess Marine in Dover to develop the course, which will provide students with their codification examination (Lloyds & DNV). Such is the demand that the 16 week courses will run back-to-back throughout the year.
The Learning and Skills Council (LSC), supported the college in the development of the £48,000 facility. It features 6 aluminium and 12 ferrous welding machines, one of which was generously donated by Hampshire Welding Limited.
Principal and CEO of City College, Lindsey Noble, said: "The boat building industry is a major part of the south's economy. The students of today will be the boat builders of tomorrow and we want to make sure they are armed with all the relevant skills to help them succeed.
"It is our aim as a college to provide learners with the skills they need for the future, in areas where jobs are available, and the opening of City Welding School is another way to help us achieve our mission. Not only this, but the new aluminium welding course will allow us to help employees already working for the south's aluminium boat building companies to widen their existing skills and help their companies to compete globally."
City College has strong links with the marine industry as it teaches marine engineering disciplines at its waterside Maritime Technology Centre in Woolston and its main campus in St Mary Street. Since 2005, the MTC has trained more than 1,000 people in engineering, marine composites and boat building.
For further information contact Ken Cast, Marine Skills Manager, email kc@southampton-city.ac.uk or call 02380 724722
Posted 2009-07-29 15:44:44
Marine Skills MareNet event, Wednesday 30th September 2009
Skills are one of the most important issues facing our marine workforce in the South East, however the skills and training landscape is complicated and often difficult to navigate. To address this, Marine South East is putting on a unique Marine Skills MareNet event taking place on Wednesday 30th September from 16.00 – 18.30.
There will be no presentations! The event will take the form of informal round-table discussions where marine companies can address their concerns and issues with a number of training and skills experts. Several relevant topics will be discussed, including:
- Skills shortages facing marine companies e.g. Aluminium Welding / CAD-CAM
- Marine Apprenticeships
- Leadership and management skills for marine business leaders
- Funding and grants available for the marine sector
- Business improvement techniques - focusing on improving the productivity and competitiveness of marine companies
- Diplomas, NVQ's and skills for the marine industry
The event will be limited to around 25 marine companies. This is your chance to find out how skills and training can improve your bottom line.
Reserve your place now at http://www.marinesoutheast.co.uk/marenet
Posted 2009-08-03 12:26:09
New Board members at Marine South East
Marine South East has recently welcomed two new members to the Board, They will add to the wide range of skills and business knowledge that already exists on the Board.
Tim Kent is Director of Marine Strategy & Planning at Lloyd's Register. He is a professional engineer and has had experience of design, development and production within heavy engineering industries.
Matt Johnson is a director of ClearLine Communications Ltd, a leading PR and marketing agency focusing on the commercial and leisure marine sectors. He joined ClearLine in 2000 and prior to that had a successful career in sales and marketing in the financial services sector. Matt is also the new chair of Marine South East's PR and networking group.
If you would like more information on these two new appointments email admin@marinesoutheast.co.uk
Posted 2009-08-03 11:34:21
Gravesham MP shows commitment to marine training
Gravesham MP Adam Holloway visited the National Sea Training Centre at North West Kent College last week to find out about the latest training requirements for Britain’s Merchant Navy.
His afternoon began with a splash when he jumped 12ft in to the swimming pool and swam to a standard inflatable life-raft and clambered in. He was given information about the use of fast rescue boats - which are now a requirement of any ship carrying passengers - and was told how people deal with hypothermia and the rough seas, if they are out in the ocean in a life raft.
He was then taken to the fire training ground where he learnt about how to deal with being hot and wet: putting out fires at sea.
'I see how important this training is,' he said. 'If you only remember 10% of this you stand a better chance of surviving.'
The NSTC trains Ship's Officers and Crew, for every eventuality, to International Standards agreed by the UN.
Head of the NSTC Paul Russell, said: 'Mr Holloway's enthusiasm to want to know how people have to survive in the middle of the ocean was impressive. So we are delighted to see that our MP is taking this interest in the vital Safety training provided here in his constituency.'
If you would like to find out more about the training that the college offers go to http://www.nwkcollege.ac.uk
Posted 2009-07-29 14:20:09
Consultation on future plans for Southampton Port
ABP Southampton has produced a port master plan for the next 20 years, a strategy document which included, among other things, an envisaged application to build the controversial Dibden Bay container terminal.
The original Dibden Bay planning application was rejected for environmental reasons. ABP director for Port of Southampton, Doug Morrison, told a seminar at the port's new Ocean Terminal for cruise ships that Dibden Bay will be "a reality" one day in order to meet forecast UK box demand beyond 2020.
Southampton's port master plan is now available on the web for public consultation, a stakeholder process that lasts until November. It is expected to draw fire from sections of the community, mainly due to mention of Dibden Bay.
The master plan is, however, a wide-ranging document that includes forecasts for the commercially important but less contentious car and cruise sectors at the hub, which handled 42m tonnes prior to the recession. The voluntary master plan, which ABP Southampton is not legally required to produce, also addresses such issues as road access and rail freight track enhancements.
Mr Morrison told the Port City Futures Southampton Convention last month that a fifth cruise terminal will be needed in by 2020, when the port's current 1m passengers a year is expected to have doubled, based again on very conservative growth assumptions.
The UK government is about to introduce new planning legislation that should fast track the development of infrastructure projects which are considered essential to the national economy. The criteria for such port projects will be set out in the long-awaited National Ports Policy document from the UK government, with publication expected later this year.
Southampton is one of the UK's busiest and most important ports, and a principal driver in the regional economy. It handles in excess of 42 million tonnes of cargo annually - or around seven per cent of the UK's entire seaborne trade - and is the main gateway for Far East imports.
For more information or to take part in the public consultation go to http://abports.co.uk
Posted 2009-07-29 15:13:17
CAD training offer for budding marine designers
A year long accredited course on Digital Design and Manufacture using the SolidWorks® 3D CAD Package has been developed by Southampton Solent University (SSU) and Marine South East with endorsement from SolidSolutions management.
The course consists of 2 evening hours per week for 26 weeks over the academic year starting during the first week in October 2009. Students will be taught on the SSU campus by a Solid Solutions instructor. The basics of SolidWorks® will be taught through various digital design tasks. This will both build on students' digital design experience and add to their portfolio.
Students will also have the opportunity, at cost, to build their designs using the college's latest FDM rapid manufacturing and CNC 5 Axis routing systems. There will also be an opportunity to take part in a forum and learn from peers.
The qualification at the end of the first year will be a Professional Development Award (PDA) which will earn credit points towards undertaking a higher degree. If students then wish to carry on for a further two years they will be eligible to sit the SolidWorks® exams to become a SolidWorks® accredited user. This will also count as credits towards a higher degree.
As registered students, there will be the opportunity to purchase an educational licence of SolidWorks® to use and practise at home.
Cost per place is £800. Thanks to a subsidy from Marine South East, the cost to a person involved in the marine industry is reduced to £600. To make further enquiries about this course, or book a place to start in October contact gordon.brand@solent.ac.uk
Posted 2009-08-03 11:40:15
Hythe Marine Park to offer marine units for high growth companies
SEEDA will shortly be submitting an outline planning application to New Forest District Council for the construction at Hythe Marine Park of a detached marine production facility.
The new building will comprise of 1-3 units up to a total area of approximately 5,000 m2 (53,820 sq ft). The unit(s) are expected to provide flexible production space for high growth marine companies and expressions of interest are currently being invited from suitable marine companies.
The final design of the premises will be subject to detailed requirements of the selected occupier(s) and it is envisaged a detailed planning application will be submitted by the proposed occupier(s) on selection.
The building could suit from one to three occupiers depending on the size required by each business. Further details can be obtained from Paul Flatt, Senior Development Manager 01483 484267 or by visiting http://www.hythemarinepark.co.uk/future-plans Closing date for expressions of interest is 1st September 2009
Posted 2009-08-03 12:22:56
Marine companies needed for new awards to celebrate British innovation
The iawards, recently launched at the Science Museum, aim to celebrate the best of cutting edge British science and technology. Entries for the 13 categories are open to all organisations, but must specify the British involvement in any innovation - demonstrating that innovative thinking and development came from a British organisation or team.
The awards categories reflect the greatest challenges we face as a country where science and innovation offer the best chance of developing viable solutions. Each entry must demonstrate how its innovative qualities relate to at least one of the following challenges: preserving finite natural resources in the face of population growth and climate change and delivering public services which make best use of new technologies. They must also demonstrate that the innovation has an impact on one of the Governments grand challenges for science.
The iawards will be run by the Department for Business Innovation and Skills (BIS). Siemens will sponsor the 'Next Big Thing' category and Microsoft will sponsor the best technology start up category.
Winners of the awards will be helped by UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) to meet potential business partners at key industry events. They will also receive public relations support from the iawards team. All of shortlisted entries and the winners will also have exclusive access to the iawards logo.
Innovation and science will play a key role in building a stronger and more competitive economy able to take advantage of the upturn. The iawards will recognise those people and businesses that will help to do this.
Prime Minister Gordon Brown said of the iawards launch:
"New innovations will help us build for the future and take advantage of new opportunities in low carbon, digital technology, bioscience and advanced manufacturing. The iawards will celebrate and recognise Britain's most innovative entrepreneurs."
James Caan, of the BBC's Dragons Den added:
"Britain is home to some of the greatest minds in the world. We are the nation that invented the jet engine, created the code for the Internet and led research on the human genome project. Science and technology will shape the future of our economy. This is why it is so important for the iawards to recognise and honour Britain's innovators for the vital contribution they make to our economy."
The iawards categories relevant to the marine sector are:
The iaward for transport - This category is for innovation in any area of transportation which supports society in terms of moving people, products and service delivery.
The iaward for energy and environment - This category is for innovation in any area of energy and environment which supports society in terms of the challenge of providing/conserving energy and our responsibilities ensuing from climate change.
The iaward for a consumer product - This category is for innovation in any area which supports our society and has provided a product or service which has most positively impacted the lives of mass consumers.
The iaward for the cross-application of technology - This category is for innovation in any area which supports our society in terms of one of the key national challenges.
The iaward for best collaboration - This category is for innovation in any area which supports our society in terms of one of the key national challenges.
The iaward for British inside - This category is for innovation in any area which supports our society in terms of one of the key national challenges.
The iaward for inward investment - This category is for innovation in any area which supports our society in terms of one of the key national challenges.
The iaward for the next big thing - This category is for innovation in any area which supports our society and is yet to be fully commercialised in its widest potential.
The iaward for best technology start up.
For more information, and to enter, visit http://www.iawards.org.uk. The closing date for entries is 16 September 2009. The iawards gala dinner will take place at the Science Museum, November 16, 2009.
Posted 2009-07-29 15:07:53
Some good news from the BMF with latest industry trends survey
The British Marine Federation (BMF) recently released industry trend results that show small signs of recovery in specific areas of the leisure marine industry. But while some parts of the industry are doing better than six months ago, others are still finding conditions extremely difficult and continue to be hit hard by the recession.
And while there are glimmers of recovery in some areas, all sectors are still faring worse than 12 months ago.
The number of businesses showing an increased workload in the home market has increased from six months ago, as has the value of the home order book. Importantly, future perceptions have improved from six months ago, with 77% of respondents seeing future prospects as OK, good or excellent, compared with 62% who felt the same six months ago.
On the negative side, there has been a significant decrease in investment over the past six months, while turnover has decreased for 50% of the members compared to a year ago.
These findings are derived from the BMF's spring trends survey; conducted bi-annually, this edition was completed by a representative sample of 207 BMF members. The research is published as an aid to the industry in forecasting and planning for future months.
Rob Stevens, BMF Chief Executive, said: "While it is encouraging that some parts of the industry are showing signs of improvement these statistics make it clear that this remains a very challenging time.
"I am convinced, however, that the UK marine industry has the strength and quality to come through this difficult time ready to prosper in the upturn. But this is certainly no time for complacency and that is why the BMF is redoubling its efforts to ensure that it offers members high-quality services and support at excellent value. As part of this, we are continuing to work closely with Government to ensure that the interests of the leisure marine industry, particularly the availability of credit, are articulated, heard and understood at the highest level."
If you would like to see the full results from the BMF's survey go to http://www.britishmarine.co.uk/research
Posted 2009-07-29 13:49:53
Advice network to help businesses with ambitions to grow
Knowledge Peers is an advice network for CEOs and directors of small to medium-sized companies with ambitions to grow. The network helps companies tackle pressing business challenges by learning directly from the experiences of their peers.
The network captures on video the practical experiences of other business leaders and specialist advisors who have dealt with specific issues and make these available to members via a members-only website.
Knowledge Peers is offering Marine South East members one year's membership to its service free of charge, normally worth £120.
To take up the offer go to http://kc-uk.knowledgepeers.com/referrals/fc5ecf178e4e6c813a3cb072a906966e.html
Posted 2009-07-29 13:48:28
New guide launched to help companies deal with bad debt
Have you ever had trouble collecting payment from a customer? If so, then you are not alone. Around 40% of small and medium sized South East enterprises have had more customers paying late in the past 6 months, and two of the most common causes of business failure are late payment and bad debt.
To help you avoid payment problems, Business Link has created a free practical guide to getting paid on time. This guide covers:
- Getting the basics right - Don't let late payments ruin your business
- Invoicing - Make it easy for your customers to pay
- Managing cashflow - Stay out of the red
- Accessing finance - Is factoring or credit insurance right for you?
- Chasing payment - Resolve problems with minimum fuss
The guide will enable you to avoid common mistakes and focus your attention on what really works, saving you time and money.
You can download a copy of the guide by going to http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/bdotg/action/detail?itemId=5001339870&type=CAMPAIGN&site=210&furlname=promptpayment&furlparam=promptpayment&ref=&domain=www.businesslink.gov.uk
Posted 2009-07-29 15:40:16
Universities and Higher colleges work together to create new training opportunities
The University of Portsmouth Mechanical and Design Engineering Department is planning to develop a Marine Engineering Bridging Unit that will be available to those currently employed in local marine companies and who have just, or are the process of completing, a level
3 Marine Engineering course.
This project will initially be trialed by the University of Portsmouth with the co-operation of its partner institutions; it will then be used by Southampton Solent University, University of Southampton, and any colleges within the network wishing to take part.
The aim of the bridging unit is to introduce students to some of the basic engineering principles by the development of academic and practical skills. It will give them a taste of teaching and learning in a University context looking at a range of engineering subject areas. This unit would also build stronger links with local college staff and marine employers.
Local Marine Engineering industry and colleges have shown a great interest in the development of this unit and its sustainability through employers after November 2009 is relatively feasible.
Access to and evaluation of high technology equipment has been expressed by employers as an important training requirement. Each college and university has its respected specialist skills and expertise.
For example, the Department of Mechanical Engineering where this project will be trialed, has skills in materials, composites inspection and metrological investigations. Highbury College has expertise in composite production. By working together, students would be able to manufacture a composite panel at Highbury College in one session which would then be 'inspected using advance techniques' in a following session at the University of Portsmouth. The proposed programme's approach is unique in linking FE and HE providers and their technological facilities.
There will be places for 12 to 20 students from local marine employers and/or local colleges. They will attend 5 day long sessions held at different partner institutions. The first 4 day sessions will be lab and workshop based. The 5th Day will be presentations and evaluation of work to date at a HE provider. The dates decided by the employer (so they can choose less disruptive days), would be run at intervals throughout the academic year. These sessions will be hosted at 4 of the partner institution, to make full use of the differing environments and technology.
If you would like to find out more email jasper.graham-jones@port.ac.uk or call 023 9284 2404.
Posted 2009-07-29 15:23:47
ABYA report on latest Practical Yacht Brokerage Course
There was full attendance for the Association of Brokers and Yacht Agents recent Practical Yacht Brokerage Course on 22nd & 23rd June, at the Marwell Hotel, near Winchester. Delegates included a high proportion of colleagues from ABYA member brokers’ teams as well as a number of non-member brokers wanting to benefit from the training and gain membership of ABYA.
The Practical Yacht Brokerage Course offers essential training for those who have recently moved into brokerage or new boat sales, or those who want to up-date their knowledge with the latest in the law, finance and related marine matters. The course is held three times a year. Contact Kay on kay@ybdsa.co.uk for more details and a booking form for the next course due to be held in October.
Otherwise log onto http://www.ydsa.co.uk">http://www.ydsa.co.uk">http://www.ydsa.co.uk or http://www.abya.co.uk">http://www.abya.co.uk">http://www.abya.co.uk to find out more.
