PI-KEM plays key role in launch of battery manufacturing skills programme

PI-KEM, a leading supplier of energy research materials and equipment, participated in the launch event for the Birmingham Battery Manufacturing Skills Pathway (B-MSP).

The event, held at University College Birmingham (UCB), marked a significant step forward in developing a skilled workforce to support the growing battery manufacturing sector in the region.

The B-MSP is a collaborative industry-led, workforce-focused initiative, built in partnership with leading employers to meet the skills demands of the UK’s growing battery sector.

This includes hands-on, immersive learning - combining cutting-edge technology, real-world simulations, and industry-grade tools to create job-ready graduates.

It is here that PI-KEM were able to support the project through their extensive experience within battery research and production, supplying the essential equipment and materials required for the initiative.
 

PI-KEM played a pivotal role in the early stages of this new programme.

The attendance of their directors Colin Rouse and Fiona Rouse at the West Midlands Meeting at the Houses of Parliament BC-WM on 10 July, 2024, led to a connection with Rosa Wells – FE Principal and Dean for Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths at UCB.

Discussions centred on UCB's vision for training the workforce essential for the growing battery-based economy.

Following this initial meeting, PI-KEM engaged with UCB's battery team and RAVMAC, contributing to the conceptualisation of the training facility.

Members from UCB and RAVMAC visited PI-KEM to gain firsthand experience of coin cell equipment, used to make batteries such as those found in watches or key fobs.

This hands-on interaction and understanding of the battery process, from raw material through to cell production, directly informed the development of several stations, including ‘Mixing & Coating’ and ‘Cutting & Crimping’ within the UCB facility.

PI-KEM supplied coin cell equipment to demonstrate these fundamental stages of battery production, providing a crucial learning tool for understanding the processes, which would typically be rolled out within a gigafactory environment.

PI-KEM's expertise will now be utilised to continue to develop practical course content, ensuring effective and informative demonstrations of the various stages of battery production within the training program.

The launch event provided an opportunity to network with key stakeholders including Lord Hunt of Kings Heath OBE, Minister of State at the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero.

It also provided an opportunity to learn more about the curriculum and delivery of the skills pathway, and explore potential collaborations to ensure the program meets the evolving needs of the battery manufacturing industry.

Colin Rouse said: “What a stunning achievement - well done to all involved for coming together to have the vision and to create this facility.

“PI-KEM can’t wait to see how this develops, and we are privileged to be part of this.”

Pictured: Colin Rouse with Lord Hunt at the launch event