Middlesbrough College, one of the largest educational institutions in the North East of England, has officially opened its new £12 million TTE Centre. The state-of-the-art facility aims to provide the next generation of engineers and technical professionals with advanced training and skills.
Steph McGovern, a well-known broadcaster and Teesside native, was on hand to cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony. McGovern, who is passionate about promoting STEM education, praised the centre for its potential to transform young lives and careers. “It’s fantastic to see such investment in the North East,” she said. “The TTE Centre provides young people with access to world-class facilities and practical training, which is exactly what they need to succeed in their careers.”
She added, “This facility shows that Teesside has unmatched talent, and students now have the tools they need to thrive. A centre like this will help young people build the confidence and skills to compete on both national and international levels. It’s a game-changer for the region.”
The opening ceremony attracted numerous industry leaders, including Mayor Chris Cook and representatives from AV Dawson, British Steel, and Morgan Sindall, the contractors behind the centre’s construction. Attendees were excited to explore the centre’s cutting-edge facilities, which include engineering workshops, process control labs, and virtual reality (VR) training zones.
The TTE Centre is designed to provide students with hands-on training in real-world technical environments. It features industry-standard equipment that mirrors actual work settings in engineering and process industries. The facility includes specialized areas for electrical installation and maintenance, mechanical assembly, hydraulics and pneumatics, as well as a process control cabin where students can gain experience with the latest instrumentation and technologies.
A standout feature is the VR dynamic simulation training area, which offers immersive learning opportunities to improve safety training and operational skills.
Zoe Lewis, Principal and CEO of Middlesbrough College, emphasized the significance of the TTE Centre in preparing students for the workforce. “The opening of this centre is a major step in our commitment to providing students with the skills and knowledge that employers need,” she said. “This facility will also help strengthen the local economy by ensuring the next generation of technical professionals can meet the demands of a rapidly growing industry.”
The TTE Centre is part of Middlesbrough College’s ongoing effort to support regional industries and equip students with the tools to succeed in the workplace. By offering the latest equipment and immersive learning experiences, the centre ensures that students are well-prepared for careers in engineering and process industries.
