Regional Resource Centre helps Yellowfin develop new technology
The Regional Resource Centre (RRC) has recently been involved in a project to work with Southampton-based Yellowfin to help them develop their composite and CAD skills to meet the needs of the development of their revolutionary advanced propulsion system named Variable Surface Drive (VSD).
The unit provides exceptional manoeuvrability, performance, economy and driving satisfaction for many types of marine craft. The system is considered by many to be way ahead of all next-generation propulsion systems.
Recently, during the RRC marine employer engagement programme, Yellow Fin was approached and during a discussion about this new system they decided to go ahead with training in both composite and CAD subjects.
The composite training had to incorporate GRP lay-up and also Gel-coat repair. With a tight lead up to produce the new unit, the RRC set up a range of courses quickly and efficiently to give candidates the best grounding in these subjects.
Yellowfin were delighted with the results, including both the content and delivery of the training, the training process was organised and completed with both types of training delivered locally. The courses were delivered at the Maritime Technology Centre (MTC) in Woolston, the marine waterfront faculty of Southampton City College. All went well and the beneficiaries were extremely pleased with their training and went back to their company to put their newfound skills to work.
With the Southampton Boat Show looming, Yellow Fin had to design and manufacture an eye-catching display stand for their product. The design shop used their CAD expertise to design a framework to carry a rotating VSD and the RRC GRP Graduates built the panels and coated them to clad the working system.
The VSD on its new stand was prominently displayed just inside the southern entrance to the show and initiated many interesting conversations and sales leads for the company.
If you would like to speak to the RRC about training opportunities call Ken Cast on 02380 439 298 or email Kenneth.Cast@Southampton-City.ac.uk
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