New training centre for University of Derby Corporate

UDC to launch new Centre of Excellence for Mineral Products Professional Development

INDUSTRY leaders and training professionals working in the international mineral products sector have been invited to the launch of the University of Derby Corporate’s (UDC) new Centre for Mineral Products Professional Development (MPPD) next week (5 July) when a suite of new industry specific professional training programmes are to be unveiled.

The MPPD centre will be dedicated to providing professionally accredited, industry supported, and globally recognized training courses to the mineral products sector. 

Guests at the event will be welcomed by Mark Osbaldeston, manager and head of the Centre for Mineral Products Professional Development followed by addresses from Cedric Hollinsworth, chairman of the Mineral Products Qualifications Council (MPQC), and Andrew Hartley, managing director of UDC. There will also be a speech from Bill Bolsover CBE, chairman of Aggregate Industries and chair of the Strategic Forum for Construction.

The launch event will conclude with the introduction of the new training programmes set to commence in September/October 2013. Courses include: an Honours degree in Minerals Management (designed specifically with UK and international professionals in mind); and Foundation degrees in Mineral Extractives (with an international pathway), Asphalt and Pavement, and Clay Technology.

‘There is a requirement for all managers and supervisors in the mineral products sector to have a sound technical knowledge base supported by a portfolio of general managerial skills, and by combining theoretical learning with practical experience they can demonstrate competence in their respective roles,’ said Mr Hollinsworth.

‘The University of Derby Corporate has demonstrated they are clear leaders in the development of industry and academic partnerships, providing and delivering specialized requirements to the sector.’

Mr Hartley added: ‘We are delighted to expand our current international training provision and to have the opportunity to develop such strong relationships with our globally recognized industry partners. The new Centre for Mineral Products Professional Development further supports UDC’s commitment to the sector, and continues to provide the mineral products industry with flexible learning solutions that enable growth.’

The free event will take place from 11am until 3pm (5 July) at UDC’s state-of-the-art Enterprise Centre on Bridge Street in Derby city centre.