The Bedford College Group, which has campuses across Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire, is formalising its existing relationship with OMRON Industrial Automation UK.

After working together for several years, OMRON has joined the Employer Partnership Scheme.

As a global leader in industrial automation, OMRON employs around 28,000 people worldwide, delivering products and services in more than 130 countries. The company provides automation solutions focused on sensing, control, motion and machine vision, helping to improve efficiency and safety in manufacturing. OMRON is also committed to supporting education and inspiring the next generation.

Wayne Corp, Education Engagement Manager at OMRON, said:

“Working with The Bedford College Group has been a fantastic opportunity to connect education with real-world industry. By giving students access to our technology and expertise, we’re helping them develop the practical skills and confidence they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving sector. We’re proud to support the next generation of engineers and look forward to building on this partnership.”

Omron plaque

OMRON has already supported students through STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) visits to its Milton Keynes site, where they gained hands-on experience with collaborative robots, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and programmable logic controller (PLC) programming through interactive, automation-focused activities. The company has also donated equipment, including industrial inverters and Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) filters for motor control.

Additionally, three members of staff at OMRON previously studied at Bedford College, where they completed their HNC and HND qualifications, highlighting the long-standing connection between the organisation and the college.

Rachel Roberts, Partnership Manager at The Bedford College Group, added:

“Our partnership with OMRON Industrial Automation UK is a great example of how collaboration with industry can enrich the student experience. Their ongoing support, from site visits to technical expertise, helps to ensure our learners gain relevant, hands-on skills that prepare them for future careers. We’re delighted to formalise this relationship and continue working closely together.”

Through its participation in the Employer Partnership Scheme, OMRON Industrial Automation UK will take part in a range of activities throughout the academic year. The partnership is designed to strengthen links between education and industry, equipping students with the skills, knowledge and real-world experience needed to succeed in the workplace.

Find out more

For more information about The Bedford College Group Employer Partnership Scheme, contact the team at partnerships@bedford.ac.uk

To find out more about OMRON Industrial Automation UK, visit https://industrial.omron.co.uk/en/home

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