LJMU leads partnership with technology hub to support and innovate region’s businesses

Growth and innovation within the manufacturing sector will be boosted in the city and region thanks to a pioneering initiative between LJMU and a leading technology centre.

The University has partnered with the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in a commitment to transform regional industry through the use of a new Business Launch Centre.

Named MTC@LJMU, the facility will be based at the Faculty of Engineering and Technology. MTC develops innovative manufacturing processes and technologies, and four MTC staff will be permanently based at the Peter Jost Building, collaborating with the Faculty.

Managing Director of Siemens UK and alumni of LJMU, Mike Houghton, officially launched the centre and collaborative partnership which will lend expert guidance and support to regional businesses, while developing research and innovation excellence within the technology and engineering sectors.

Professor Ahmed Al-Shamma’a, Executive Dean of LJMU’s Faculty of Engineering and Technology, said: “This is the beginning of a ground-breaking partnership which will revolutionise the scope for manufacturing success in the North West. The new centre will help drive innovation, especially among the region's small to medium sized enterprises, raising awareness of the potential of new technology and delivering guidance, lending expertise and providing technical support. Through the new centre we will be able to deliver vital support to businesses to improve productivity and to introduce new products or processes.”

Former LJMU Vice-Chancellor Professor Nigel Weatherill added: “We’re enormously excited by the opportunity of working alongside MTC here in Liverpool and to foster opportunities for improved processes and innovation across the technology and engineering sectors. This initiative is part of the wider ambition of the University to take the region further forward in the 21st century and make it a viable part of the Northern Powerhouse.

“We can’t achieve our ambitions without these important relationships with industry and the business community. MTC is at the forefront of pioneering technology developments and this initiative will provide a two-way knowledge exchange, as well as enhance student learning by providing opportunities within the realms of technology, engineering, manufacturing and the arts.”