WHERE INDUSTRYMEETS INNOVATION
Wolverhampton Centre of Excellence for Shaped Laser Additive Manufacturing
The Wolverhampton Centre of Excellence for Shaped Laser Additive Manufacturing, led by the University of Wolverhampton, is a pioneering, employer-driven training and research facility located in the Black Country. It has been established to support UK industry in developing advanced technical capabilities through workforce upskilling and multi-skilling, with a particular emphasis on engineering and manufacturing.
The Centre plays a vital role in driving innovation in Additive Manufacturing (AM), with a special focus on Shaped Laser Technologies. It supports collaborative research and development, working closely with industry partner (EOS) to advance the practical application and commercialisation of cutting-edge AM processes. The facility also underpins academic research and knowledge exchange in sustainable manufacturing and high-performance materials.
The Centre forms part of the Elite Centre for Manufacturing Skills (ECMS), which supports productivity and growth within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). While initially focused on the High Value Manufacturing (HVM) sector, ECMS now offers support to SMEs across all sectors in the UK
National Foundry Training Centre
Funding drawn down from the Black County LEP by the Project was used to build and develop two operational Hubs from which to deliver support. One of these Hubs is based at Springfield Campus in Wolverhampton. The second, based at Tipton is home to the National Foundry Training Centre (NFTC).
The Centre at Tipton is primarily used to deliver the Level 3 Apprenticeship, “Metal Casting, Foundry and Pattern Making Technician Course” on behalf of Dudley College. A number Fixed Assets in the shape of 3 welding machines were also originally purchased using project funding and are now installed at Dudley College and used for training purposes.
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What is The ECMS?
The Elite Centre for Manufacturing Skills (ECMS) is a £11.6 million employer-led research and training hub at the University of Wolverhampton, dedicated to upskilling and multi-skilling the UK workforce in advanced manufacturing, casting, metal forming and engineering design.
ECMS delivers specialised industry-research partnerships, business assists and training programmes tailored to industry needs at its two state-of-the-art facilities which includes the Springfield Additive Manufacturing Centre of Excellence at Wolverhampton Springfield Campus and the National Foundry Training Centre (NFTC) at Tipton.
The ECMS is Proud to Support the Supply Chain Transition Programme
The Supply Chain Transition Programme, funded by the West Midlands Investment Zone (WMIZ), is designed to help small and medium-sized enterprises across the region expand their customer base and secure new opportunities in high‑growth sectors. Through workshops, one‑to‑one coaching with supply chain specialists, targeted training, and access to R&D grant funding, the programme supports manufacturing firms in developing innovative products aligned with the priority clusters identified in the West Midlands Growth Plan. Eligible businesses include those operating within the local authority areas of Wolverhampton, Walsall, Sandwell, Dudley, Birmingham, Solihull, Coventry, and Warwick District.
Delivery is led by the Supply Smarter West Midlands Consortium, a partnership of six organisations with deep expertise in advanced manufacturing, innovation, and skills development. The consortium includes C&W Business Solutions, the Manufacturing Technology Centre, WMG at the University of Warwick, Birmingham City University, Coventry University, and the University of Wolverhampton. Together, they will focus on supporting SMEs across five key clusters, underpinned by efforts to strengthen digital capabilities and workforce skills.
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