SERC is extending our Fire and Security apprenticeships with a new state-of-the-art training facility at the college’s Newtownards Campus supported by Hikvision, a world leader in video and security technology.
The new facility was officially opened during NI Apprenticeship Week (2-6 February) as part of a dedicated fire & security careers event to raise awareness of the opportunities for qualifications and employment in the expanding industry. Employers and key stakeholders of the UK fire and security sector were on hand to answer questions, and potential apprentices had the chance to speak with technicians who have recently completed their apprenticeship with SERC, and to hear about their experience as an apprentice in the sector.
Robin Hamill, lecturer in Fire and Security said, “We are thrilled to have this new facility for fire and security training at SERC’s Newtownards Campus, which increases our ability to offer more apprenticeship places and complements our specialist facilities on our Lisburn Campus and at SERC’s Professionals Skills Centre in Dundrod.”
He added, “Our partnership with Hikvision, and their generous donation of equipment across all our sites, means that our apprentices and those upskilling from the industry will be trained on the very latest equipment, making them work-ready for the industry.
“Fire and security work encompasses the fundamentals of electronics, IT and electrical skills, and builds on knowledge that potential students may have already gained in school or in employment. The industry offers highly dynamic and diverse roles, from field technician to estimators or contract management."
John Devine, Business Development Manager at Hikvision, said, “There’s currently a recognised shortage of skilled engineers who can meet the demands of the security and fire industries. That’s why we’ve worked with SERC to provide them with a significant donation of latest generation equipment, to give apprentices the edge as they complete their training.
“That equipment includes our latest range of Easy IP4.0 cameras with ColorVu technology, as well as thermal cameras, fisheye cameras, network video recorders, and network switches. We also provided SERC with access control products which feature facial recognition and Bluetooth technology, video intercom solutions, video decoders, wireless alarm products, and a HikCentral server.
“For us, it’s an excellent investment, as it will help SERC to address the training shortfall and encourage more people into an exciting, fast-moving, and lucrative industry.”
Robin Hamill concluded, “Over the past seven years, SERC has grown and developed the fire and security apprenticeship, working with local employers and manufacturers who have contributed state-of-the-art products to support teaching and Continuing Professional Development. SERC apprentices have gained recognition in national events including the IFSEC National Fire and National Security Competition, Skillbuild and WorldSkills, illustrating the quality of their training - delivered through a partnership between SERC and employers - and the apprentices’ expertise, professionalism, and positive attitude.”
In the picture: (l-r) SERC Fire and Security lecturer Robert Hamill with John Devine (business development manager, Hikvision), Mia Zhang (Hikvision regional manager, Ireland) and Mark McKenna (business development manager, Hikvision) at the opening of the new training facility at SERC’s Newtownards Campus.
