Tooling U-SME

Tooling U-SME is the workforce development division of SME, the manufacturing association. It helps manufacturers, government institutions and schools attract, train and keep skilled workers. Its stated aim is to build the workforce that manufacturing needs.

The company offers more than 600 online classes, along with Virtual Labs, instructor-led training, certifications and apprenticeships. Its catalogue covers topics from additive manufacturing and welding to safety and smart manufacturing.

Classes are designed with experts and aimed at workers at every level. Subjects run from foundational skills to advanced machining, composites processing, electrification and maintenance. Training packages can be set up for a single site or for a whole workforce.

Assessments help employers check the skills of existing staff and new hires, and then plan training from the results. Certifications validate knowledge against industry credentials. Apprenticeship frameworks give guided learning paths for common jobs and pair on-the-job work with related training instruction.

Talent and workforce services use a partnered approach. The company works alongside HR and training leaders to design programmes with measurable results. Its Client Success team gives personalised, hands-on guidance to customers.

Virtual Labs and training workstations let teams practise skills in a safe setting before they work on real equipment. Employers can also use a Workforce 2030 readiness assessment to plan for future skills needs.

The services are sold to small businesses, manufacturers, government bodies, schools, associations and channel partners. The team can design a programme around each customer's goals and reporting needs.

Services

• Online classes
• Virtual Labs
• Instructor-led training
• Assessments
• Certifications
• Apprenticeships
• Client Success Management
• Talent and workforce services
• Smart manufacturing training
• Training workstations