Email News November 2009
Foreword
Welcome to the November issue of Marine South East Email News. In this issue we have details of some of the latest issues and events happenning in the region. This month we are releasing details of MareNet events taking place in the next couple of months and also some useful feedback from a MareNet event held earlier in the year. Read on to find out more...
Posted 2009-11-02 13:08:04
Companies talk skills at recent MareNet event
A recent round-table MareNet held in partnership with SEMTA (Sector Skills Council for science, engineering and manufacturing technologies) at Hythe Marine Park in September, brought key public sector organisations together with marine companies to discuss the major skills and career development issues affecting the marine industry today.
Some of the key items raised by marine companies attending the event included:
- A lack of relevantly skilled workers as many young people turn to more 'glamorous' industries.
- Training available isn't always relevant to marine businesses. Training providers need to ensure training opportunities on offer address skill shortages by working more closely with companies right along the South Coast.
- University graduates have little or no practical experience.
- Problems with course accreditation
- Need to work more closely with schools to recruit for apprenticeship schemes. Need to educate Parents, Careers Advisers and Schools that apprenticeships are not for 'low achievers' but require young people with good numeracy, literacy and communication skills. They should also be aware that there is a need for a good 'work ethos'.
- Assessment of training placements needs to be more cohesive with better continuity of assessments. More opportunities for progression for those willing to train.
- A need for more apprenticeship opportunities for adults, particularly in the light of more people being made redundant.
- Greater diversity of training opportunities in marine industry for example for crews, marine gas fitters, boatyard and marina operators.
- Training in the most up to date technology methods needed in composites and CAD CAM, particularly ensuring that Universities are up to date with methods being used in industry.
- Greater training needed in people and project management.
The views given by the employers will be used by SEMTA and other organisations to tailor and improve training for businesses. If any of these issues sound familiar then try getting in touch with Business Link for free, impartial skills advice by calling 0845 600 9 006 or email info@businesslinksoutheast.co.uk
Posted 2009-11-02 10:18:53
Schools Marine Challenge winners treated to tour of QinetiQ testing facility
On the 2nd October, more than ten students and three teachers from Leigh Academy in Dartford, Kent travelled to Gosport to visit the unique hydrodynamic testing facilities owned by QinetiQ.
The students had won the South East Schools Marine Challenge in June and their prize for first place was a guided tour of the site. The facility at Haslar is owned by QinetiQ, a leading global defence and security company, and has been central to hydrodynamic research since it was founded by Robert E. Froude in 1886.
The 270m towing tank and the 5m deep Ocean Basin have been used to test a large number of ships and submarines throughout the last century and they are in great demand nowadays for both military and commercial vessels.
The tour was hosted by Andy King, one of QinetiQ's Naval Architects, and involved a presentation about the work that takes place on the site and also an interesting talk about the historical significance of the work that has taken place at Haslar.
This was all put into context using the radio controlled model powerboat that the students had designed and built for the Challenge, which they brought along with them on the trip. The students showed a real interest, asking lots of question as they toured the Ocean Basin and Towing Tank. Here they had the unique opportunity to see, at first hand, a work place that is not normally open to the general public.
They also received a tour of the workshops where the fibreglass ship and submarine models are manufactured so that they could see how QinetiQ goes about the production of scientific test equipment. This all helped to put into context what they had learnt by building their own model powerboat and some of the themes and ideas that they had learnt about in the technology classes.
Andy King commented: "I hope that the visit inspired some of the students to pursue engineering careers, specifically in marine engineering or naval architecture, in the future. They certainly showed a keen interest in the facilities we have here and asked in depth questions about the work we are involved in."
For any information about the work of QinetiQ at Haslar, please contact adking1@qinetiq.com
Posted 2009-11-02 10:25:44
Complex Ship Design and Superyachts - MareNet event, Thursday 26th November 2009
Venue: “The Portal” QinetiQ Farnborough
In ship design, should form define function or function define form? The November MareNet event will be investigating this dilemma and showing how new Superyacht and Complex Ship Designs such as the Drive 7Cs, QinetiQ Eurydice and PACSCAT vessel are overcoming this challenge through the use of the latest graphical and naval architecture software.
Taking place on Thursday 26th November 2009 from 4.00 - 7.00pm at QinetiQ Farnborough, the event will be held in the "The Portal" which allows Designers, Engineers and Project Managers to explore their options and evaluate alternative solutions in a collaborative, real time, dynamic environment.
Presenters at this event will include:
- Chris Longmore: presenting how Drive have taken the innovation of the automotive industry and used it to design their new 7Cs Superyacht concept using the Alias software tool set.
- Ian Carter/Chris Burden: presenting how the Paramarine naval architecture tool set has been successfully used to develop the Eurydice Superyacht concept.
- Chris Ross/Chris Pyke: presenting how QinetiQ and its partners developed the 21st century PACSCAT vessel from concept to full scale vessel.
Registration for the event will begin at 3.30pm with the first presentation starting at 4.00pm. The event will conclude with a networking buffet at 6.00pm.
There are only 40 places available at this event, so early booking is advised. The event is aimed at companies already working in the superyacht and complex vessel sector and would suit designers, naval architects, interior designers, shipyards, repair and refit facilities, superyacht brokers, project managers, captains and owners representatives. The event is not suitable for delegates from service and professional companies wishing to sell their products and services to attendees and applications to attend with therefore be checked for suitability.
MareNet events are free to attend but please be courteous and give us 48 hours notice of cancellation.
To register for this event please log onto http://www.marinesoutheast.co.uk/marenet
Alternatively email admin@marinesoutheast.co.uk or call 02380 111590.
Posted 2009-10-14 10:33:26
Knowledge Transfer Partnerships and the Marine Sector
Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP) are one of the government’s best kept secrets, yet for those in the know, the benefits are huge. You could tap into ground-breaking research from one of the UK’s knowledge bases to help develop and grow your business.
KTPs help businesses address long-term, strategic issues within their organisation by collaborating with skilled academics and qualified graduates. Projects can vary from between 10 weeks to three years. An average two-year project costs around £125,000 with an SME only contributing 33% of the total costs; a larger organisation pays 50% of the costs.
Average benefits achieved by a KTP project include:
- An increase of over £220,000 in annual profits before tax
- The creation of three genuine new jobs
- An increase in the expertise of existing staff
KTP has a long history of working with businesses in the marine sector. J and S Marine Ltd, Pendennis Shipyard Holdings Ltd, Aberdeen Harbour Board and Milford Docks Company Ltd are all examples of businesses who have gained substantially from participating in a KTP project.
J and S Marine is an engineering company which offers technical solutions for the Defence and Energy markets. The company employs over 120 staff with its HQ in Barnstaple which also provides technical expertise primarily for the Naval Defence Industry.
The company designs and manufactures complex systems and equipment for specialist sectors, for example, underwater sonar, GPS survey equipment for sea bed survey. J & S Marine trades within a very competitive environment. The company recognised that to provide a strong basis for business success, it needed to review its processes, increase efficiency and maximise its use of resources in line with lean manufacturing practices. The company approached the University of Exeter for a KTP partnership.
As a result of the KTP, the company has successfully reviewed and changed its processes and systems so that it has a better foundation for future business success.
The 'Five S' system was applied as part of a visual factory (workplace) management approach. Five S alludes to five actions: sort, stabilise, shine, standardise and sustain. This technique was chosen because of its proven ability to bring about improved profitability, efficiency, service and safety.
The Five S system helped to identify a number of areas for improvement and refurbishment and monthly audits were set up to monitor housekeeping, resource efficiency, energy efficiency and heath and safety.
Business analysis set out six key performance indicators to help bring about further improvements and these indicators are collated on a monthly basis.
As a result of greater efficiency, the company has been able to reduce days late in its delivery by around 15 days. This is expected to increase turnover by £350,000. In the three year period following the KTP project and an annual profit of £112,000 is anticipated before tax.
For information on other company case studies go to http://casestudies.ktponline.org.uk/casestudies
For nearly 35 years, KTP has been helping to strengthen the competitiveness, wealth creation and economic performance of the UK through innovative, collaborative projects between businesses and academics. Funding is provided by government, and is led by the Technology Strategy Board.
If you would like to take advantage of the skills and funding available through KTP please visit http://www.ktponline.org.uk/business or call the KTP helpline on 0870 190 2829.
KTP advisors for the Solent and South East region are:
Kent, East Sussex, West Sussex, South East London
Dr Terry Corner - Telephone: 01732 456136 or 07768 614069 Email: terry@terrycorner.co.uk
Hampshire, South & West Berkshire, West Surrey
Ms Jan Dobson - Telephone: 01264 735452 or 07828 698228 Email: jan.dob@talktalk.net
South Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Central & SW London
Mr Martin Fakley - Telephone: 01489 787446 or 08702 469809 Email: mfa@thefakleys.co.uk
Berkshire, Surrey, Central & SW London
Dr Paul Naylor - Telephone: 01276 676203 or 07990 973750 Email: paul.tcd@drnaylor.freeserve.co.uk
Oxfordshire
Dr Gillian Rysiecki - Telephone: 01488 680860 or 07818 422293
Email: grysiecki@aol.com
Posted 2009-11-02 10:32:51
SEEDA seeks your views on new knowledge network
The South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) is currently looking at the possibility of setting up an Advanced Materials Knowledge Network. It is interested in the views of marine businesses and other relevant organisations on the value of a knowledge network and to help determine its objectives and operation.
The network would act collaboratively with existing networks e.g. The National Knowledge Transfer Networks, Chartered Institutions and the SEEDA Sector Consortia and other SEEDA Knowledge Networks, e.g. Farnborough Aerospace Consortium and Marine South East.
The ultimate objective of the Network would be to support wealth creation for the Region by facilitating the creation of co-development projects and access to funding streams, by bringing together key industrial players, SMEs and knowledge based organisations such as Universities and Research and Technology Organisations.
If you would like to take part in this survey go to
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=Zjcr44FttIP18N5_2bQk5ceA_3d_3d
Posted 2009-11-02 10:35:15
Isle of Wight’s Hybrid Marine scoops green award
Hybrid Marine has won the Practical Boat Owner Magazine Green Product of the Year award for its new hybrid marine engines, which utilise both diesel and electrical power.
Hybrid diesel/electric drives have been making a stealthy appearance in the marine market for a number of years, but Isle of Wight-based Hybrid Marine are the first to offer a viable add-on to existing engine installations.
Hybrid Marine's system mounts a 7.5kW electric motor in parallel with the existing diesel plant. By a system of clutches, the boat can then be propelled by electric or diesel power. When the diesel engine is running, the motor is driven in reverse to recharge the batteries, or charging can also occur under sail by the spinning prop driving the motor - this is known as regeneration.
The environmental implications of the system are considerable. Diesel engines are at their most efficient, and therefore least damaging to the environment, when they are run at around 75 percent revs and are fully warmed up. Sailors use the engine in that way when cruising, but also frequently use it in short bursts to leave or enter a berth.
The system powers a vessel using electrical power but can be backed up with a reliable diesel engine if required. The hybrids also double as powerful generators when the engine is running.
Managing director of the firm Graeme Hawksley said: "We are an Isle of Wight home-grown enterprise and are immensely proud to be contributing to the green Island ethos. Hybrid Marine is poised for a rapid expansion and will bring quality jobs to the Island. "
Other 2009 winners included Portsmouth-based Sunsail, Wilks Marine in Essex and the British Marine Federation's Green Blue campaign. If you are a company with serious green credentials then applications are now open for the 2010 PBO Green Awards.
There are four categories in which you can enter:
Product
Marine products that promote sustainable boating.
Boats and boatbuilders
Company or craft incorporating eco-friendly design and/or production
Service
Charter businesses, marinas, maintenance, repair and support providers actively reducing the impact of the leisure-boat industry on the environment
Campaign or Initiative
Individual or group effectively promoting sustainability in boating and/or the marine industry
The closing date for applications is 30 April 2010. Go to http://www.pbo.co.uk/news/427220/pbo-green-awards to find out more. For more information on Hybrid's Marine's winning product go to http://www.hybrid-marine.co.uk
Posted 2009-11-02 10:57:15
Ex Vestas workers find new skills at Southampton City College
A group of former Vestas workers were among the first to start a brand new course at Southampton City College last month. Five men who were made redundant from the wind power company met with the Minister for the South East, Jonathan Shaw MP ahead of starting City College’s new aluminium welding course, which is the first of its kind in the Solent region.
More than 20 former Vestas workers and two other students will be the first to take the course, which is being taught in the college's new aluminium welding facility, opened by The Rt Hon John Denham, MP for Southampton Itchen and Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, in July.
The course was established following work undertaken by a partnership of Marine South East, the Technology Skills Project and Southampton City College working with South East Region marine companies to cater for the demand for specialised skills in the aluminium boat building industry.
City College is working with companies such as South Boats on the Isle of Wight, Aluminium Shipbuilders Ltd, Palmer Johnson Yachts and Burgess Marine in Dover to develop the course, which will provide students with their codification examination (Lloyds & DNV). Demand is so high that the 16-week courses will run back-to-back throughout the year.
The course will provide vital new skills and training, which will help the former Vestas workers get back into employment and help other students progress in their careers.
Lindsey Noble, Principal and CEO of City College, said: "City College is pleased help the former Vestas workers so soon after they were made redundant and I hope that by training with us, it won't be long until they are back in employment. City College is dedicated to providing people from all walks of life with the relevant skills they need to succeed, whether they are school leavers, currently employed or, like these former Vestas employees, have been made redundant and are looking to update their skill set. Our adult learners have a 95 per cent success rate and I am confident that our first influx of welders on the new course will continue this trend."
The aluminium welding course is set to benefit the south coast's boat building industry, where a shortage of skilled aluminium welders has been an issue for some time. The course is unique as the methodologies will be taught for plating in excess of 40mm in thickness which will require modern techniques being taught to ensure full penetration welds.
The course was established in a partnership between City College and south coast boat builders in order to cater for local demand for specialised skills in the aluminium boat building industry. The 16-week aluminium welding course was set up to provide employers with a highly-qualified workforce of welders trained in the most relevant and technologically up-to-date skills. City College worked in conjunction with companies such as South Boats on the Isle of Wight, Palmer Johnson Yachts and Burgess Marine in Dover to develop the course, which will provide students with their codification examination (Lloyds & DNV). Demand is so high that the 16-week courses will run back-to-back throughout the year.
The Learning and Skills Council (LSC), supported the college in the development of the new £48,000 aluminium welding facility, where the course is taught. It features six aluminium and 12 ferrous welding machines, one of which was generously donated by Hampshire Welding Limited.
For further information on these courses contact Ken Cast at City College by e-mailing kc@southampton-city.ac.uk or calling 02380 724722.
Posted 2009-11-02 11:31:04
BMEA grants available to companies looking to develop overseas business
BMEA has recently announced significant funding for a number of key international events.
The UKTI Tradeshow Access Programme (TAP) supports companies at overseas exhibitions.
The objective of exhibition support is to help, primarily, newly exporting SMEs to learn how to use exhibitions as a key tool in their trade development plans. The support is intended to work most efficiently as part of a development programme for eligible businesses which Accredited Trade Organisations (ATOs) and UKTI's regional network can help to facilitate.
This is the last chance for UK SMEs to take advantage of TAP grants worth up to £1400 for Marintec 2009 (1-4 December).
Marintec is one of the most prestigious marine trade fairs in the world. Newbuild orders in China are picking up rapidly. A study by Clarkson Research Services, show in july 2009 some 4.34 million DWT of new ships were contracted. Many of the Chinese yards have also turned to repair and conversion work, so demand for overseas equipment and services remain high.
Please contact Anna Ridout by emailing bmea@maritimeindustries.org for full terms and conditions or to request a TAP application form.
BMEA has also just announced that UKTI has just provided BMEA with a substantial number of Trade Access programme (TAP) Grants, for eligible SME's in the sum of £1000 for each firm for those exhibiting at SMM Hamburg (7-10 September 2010)
For more information and a TAP application for contact bmea@maritimeindustries.org
Posted 2009-11-02 12:55:07
UKSpill launches new journal
UKspill, the national body for the UK oil spill industry,has recently launched a quarterly journal to keep members up to date with what's happening in the industry.
Issues raised in this issue include: speed, service and environmental integrity, power and pollution in the Baltic and the impact of software failures on potential oil spills.
If you would like to download a copy go to http://www.marinesoutheast.co.uk/docs/journals
Posted 2009-11-02 13:33:58
Southampton University posters now on display online
Marine South East recently attended the launch of the University of Southampton's Strategic Research Group (USRG) in Maritime Studies at The National Oceanographic Centre, Southampton.
There was a selection of poster on display at the event, which are now available for download on the University's website. They cover subjects such as the environment, ocean schiences, communities and trade. Go to
http://www.soton.ac.uk/business/docs/event_pdfs_index.html if you would like to take a look.
