Engineering waits for green light to use motorsport glamour in recruitment driveChris DruceThe Motorsport Industry Association (MIA) has eight weeks to raise ?3m from theelectronics, aerospace, motorsport and defence sectors. If successful the Government willrelease a further ?6m to be used for the benefit of the high-performance engineeringsector.
"The DTI has been searching for a project that can provide a suitable catalyst todrive the high-performance (HP) engineering sector forward in the UK," Chris Aylett,CEO of the MIA, told Electronics Weekly.
Aylett said the money would go into a pot to promote greater co-operation betweenengineering sectors through seminars and other events. MIA's plan is to open up themotorsport sector to other engineering firms, including electronics. It is hoped this willcreate more jobs for engineers in the industry.
"Motorsport teams are experts in accelerating technology development, managinglarge teams of engineers and dealing with complicated logistics - skills that can beincorporated to strengthen the HP engineering sector," said Aylett.
Although there is currently some degree of knowledge transfer between sectors, Aylettargued there could be more. "At a time when we are struggling in this country torecruit new engineers there is the potential to use the glamour of motorsport to attractfresh blood into the industry," said Aylett.
The DTI will release ?1m a year if the MIA can achieve pound-for-pound backing fromindustry. If successful, there is another ?3m available over three years from theRegional Development Agency.
Aylett said the MIA had already received several substantial commitments.
Those interested in further information should call 02476 692 600 or e-mail Chris.Aylett@the-mia.com