APPRENTICES across the west of Scotland are gaining hands-on experience with the digital technologies shaping the future of manufacturing through a new collaboration.
The National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), West College Scotland, and Ailsa Reliability Solutions Ltd have partnered as part of the Data-Driven Design and Manufacturing CoLab (D3M_CoLab) programme.
The project supports companies to lead their own data-driven projects aimed at solving industrial challenges, boosting productivity, and increasing competitiveness. Employees are upskilled through targeted workforce development courses, equipping them with the skills to manage projects independently, with support from CoLab’s team of data scientists as needed.
Running until March 2026, the training programme centres on condition monitoring – using sensors and digital systems to assess machine health and detect early signs of failure. These insights help reduce unplanned downtime, lower maintenance costs, and support more sustainable manufacturing by minimising energy waste and extending equipment life.
As part of the collaboration, Ailsa Reliability has developed a bespoke fan skid – specialist demonstrator equipment designed to simulate real-world manufacturing conditions. Installed at West College Scotland, as part of the College Local Innovation Centre (CLIC), the setup enables apprentices to gain practical experience fitting sensors, collecting data, and analysing results using professional software. It is currently being used across a range of courses at SCQF Levels 5-7.
By combining experiential learning with technical insight, the programme is helping equip early-career engineers with the skills and mindset to solve complex problems and contribute to a more resilient manufacturing workforce.
Andrew Sherlock, director of data-driven manufacturing at NMIS, said, “The real value of this programme is in empowering people to tackle challenges in their own workplaces using data. We’re not just teaching digital skills – we’re identifying where improvements can be made and giving individuals the training and support they need to lead those changes themselves. For apprentices, this means learning how to think critically and use data effectively, and build the confidence to make informed decisions on the shop floor and beyond.”
Jenni Doonan, head of business development & innovation at West College Scotland, added, “This partnership shows how colleges and industry can work together to create practical, forward-thinking training. By combining our teaching expertise with insight from NMIS and Ailsa Reliability, we’re giving apprentices real-world experience with the tools and approaches they’ll use on the job. It’s about more than technical skills – it also builds confidence, problem-solving, and adaptability, which are just as important in the workplace.”
Jamie Burns, MD at Ailsa Reliability, commented, “We’re always looking for ways to improve the sectors we operate in by helping companies make better use of data through industrial IoT and condition monitoring. Building knowledge and hands-on skills in these areas can reduce downtime, cut waste, and improve efficiency. Our partnership with NMIS and West College Scotland is a great way to develop these strengths and support more sustainable, future-ready businesses.”
