The UK Government has outlined plans to set up a new college to train the next generation engineers to work on the construction of the High Speed 2 (HS2) rail project.
The Further Education College is expected to be unveiled by 2017. It will offer the specialised training and qualifications that are needed for the development of HS2 and other infrastructure projects across the country.
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The training will be given on making advanced technology and usage of advanced equipment in order to deliver programmes designed specifically for the HS2 project.
The college will also connect with existing academic institutions, private training providers, HE institutions and major supply networks off route.
Business Secretary Vince Cable said: "It is right that a large-scale investment in bricks and mortar should also come with investment in the elite skills that will help build it."
During the construction phase, HS2 is expected to create around 2,000 apprentices.
Hitachi Rail Europe will set up a new plant at Newton Aycliffe, in County Durham, by creating 730 jobs to build Britain made trains.
Hitachi Rail Europe executive chairman and CEO Alistair Dormer said: "As part of our commitment to the UK we are taking on apprentices in all our locations and will be working with a local college to train the engineers, technicians and designers of tomorrow."
