Go-Ahead opens new Manchester training hub

Go-Ahead Group has officially launched a new hub for engineering talent in Greater Manchester – a flagship centre set to train over 900 engineers, including 100 apprentices, as part of a UK-wide, multi-million-pound skills investment.

Located at Go North West’s Wigan depot, the Engineering Academy is one of two new training centres established by Go-Ahead, with a sister site in Camberwell, London. The facilities are intended to help future-proof the engineering workforce at a time of rapid technological change.

The Wigan opening was marked by a visit from Makerfield MP Josh Simons; Go North West Managing Director, Nigel Featham and the Academy’s first cohort of 15 apprentices.

The site’s design draws influence from Formula 1, created with the intention of energising and elevating the engineering profession. Go-Ahead says the site aligns with Go-Ahead’s mission to accelerate the shift to zero-emission transport.

Nigel Featham, Managing Director of Go North West, said: “Go-Ahead operates over 6,000 buses and coaches, including the UK’s largest zero-emission fleet. Our new Engineering Academy helps us raise the bar – for safety, for skills, and for the customer experience. We’re proud that Greater Manchester is home to the northern hub. Inspired by Formula 1, it’s fast, focused and full of flair – because engineering should be as exciting as it is essential.”

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “The Bee Network is about delivering world class transport – and that means building world-class skills to match. This brilliant new Academy will open doors for people across Greater Manchester and help power our vision for a cleaner, more connected region.”