The Engineering Construction Industry Training Board’s (ECITB) Labour Forecasting Tool predicts that the number of welders required in the ECI could rise to more than 2,150 by 2030, up from 1,470 in 2025.

To help tackle this industry-wide shortfall in skilled welders, the ECITB has released a six-week programme designed to upskill individuals with limited or basic welding experience, developing their knowledge and skills through a blended learning approach.

Following a successful pilot, the ECITB is calling for training providers to deliver the Multi-position Fillet Welding (MMA) programme as part of a wider rollout across Great Britain.

ECITB chief executive Andrew Hockey said: “Attracting, upskilling and retaining an agile, diverse and competent workforce in sufficient numbers to meet projected growth in demand is a big priority of our Leading Industry Learning strategy 2026-30.

“Upskilling programmes like this help address industry skills shortages and allow workers to move between nascent and traditional industries.

“While this programme has a particular focus on supporting workforce requirements within the nuclear sector, it also has strong cross-sector relevance and is suitable for a wide range of engineering construction environments.

“With trades like welding vital to build the infrastructure needed to deliver major projects in the ECI – and with our Workforce Census stating that 24% of welders are over 60 – this programme will support industry’s growing demand for job-ready welders.”

The programme provides a structured pathway from foundational welding skills to multi-position MMA welding capability and technical test readiness. 

It is delivered through a blend of theory and practical training, enabling learners to progressively develop their welding capability and underpinning technical knowledge.

As well as those with limited experience, the programme is designed for learners seeking to transition into welding roles or those requiring structured development before formal welder testing to verify competence.

The theory element provides essential knowledge to support safe, compliant and high-quality welding practice. The practical component develops capability across increasing levels of complexity, focusing on technique, control, consistency and quality, aligning with industry expectations.

Learner progress is measured via the completion of a course workbook, a multiple-choice knowledge test and a practical observation and assessment.

Any training providers wishing to deliver the upskill welding programme should email programmeadmin@ecitb.org.uk.