Advanced Electric Machines (AEM), a specialist in sustainable electric motors and powertrain systems, is leveraging a new skills training initiative to fuel its ambitious growth following a recent £23 million funding raise. Based in Washington and spun out from Newcastle University by founders James Widmer and Andrew Steven, AEM is among the first participants in the Electrification Skills Training Programme—an intensive bootcamp available through the ERS Hub.
The company enrolled 25 employees in the three-day course, which spanned various aspects of the business, including production, procurement, mechanical engineering, and electrical and power electronics engineering. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding the program’s tailored content, which accommodates varying levels of expertise in Power Electronics, Machines, and Drives (PEMD).
Key topics covered in the training included electronic circuits, high voltage safety, electrical machines, MOSFET and IGBT typology, inverters, e-motor drives, DC motors, and both asynchronous and synchronous motors.
Widmer expressed enthusiasm about the company’s current trajectory, stating, “With our recent £23 million raise, we are well-positioned to expand and meet the growing demand for our electric powertrain solutions that avoid rare earth materials.” He emphasized that part of this funding will be allocated for recruitment and upskilling existing staff, as the sector faces a talent shortage.
“This pilot program is a critical first step in addressing the skills gap within our industry, benefiting apprentices, graduates, and current employees alike,” Widmer added.
AEM’s electric powertrain technologies are designed for high performance, efficiency, and recyclability, used in a range of applications from commercial vehicles to trains. With the workforce growing to approximately 80 employees, many of whom come from diverse engineering backgrounds, the need for training in electric motor technology is paramount.
The Electrification Skills Training Programme, developed in collaboration with Coventry University and North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College, will expand over the coming months following a successful development phase funded by Innovate UK. This initiative includes contributions from various organizations experienced in PEMD and large-scale skills interventions.
Coventry University experts delivered the AEM bootcamp, utilizing participant feedback to refine future training content. Petar Igic, academic director of the ERS Hub, noted the positive response from participants, indicating that the training format is adaptable to meet specific industry needs.
Widmer, who also chairs the ERS HUB Advisory Group, concluded by highlighting the electrification sector’s potential and expressing interest in licensing the training program to allow broader access across the country.
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