MP opens Alstom training centre

Stafford MP David Kidney opened a new training centre at one of the town's biggest employers.

Alstom's power service business's generator engineering training centre at its Lichfield Road site was officially opened on Friday.

The event was attended by more than 20 guests, including representatives from local government, education and training organisations.

Guests were able to learn more about Alstom's recent £1.7 million investment in state-of-the-art technical training facilities.

Managing director (UK) of Alstom Power Service Steven Jones said:"This is the second technical training facility that we have opened in the space of five months. In September 2007 we opened a steam turbine engineering training centre in Rugby and I am just as proud to be opening an equivalent training centre here in Stafford that is dedicated to generator technology. In our business, it's our people and their expertise that makes the difference and these facilities will help to further strengthen the services we offer and demonstrate our long-term commitment to developing the vital skills required by our industry in the future.

"One of the main reasons we chose to invest in Stafford is because of the rich heritage Alstom has in the area, particularly in generator technology, something we hope to continue through attracting a new generation of apprentices. It has also provided a perfect opportunity to modernise another area of the Stafford site." The purpose-built centre is equipped with power generation equipment recently retired from active service.