The transition to cleaner energy is accelerating, and with it comes a growing need for specialist net-zero skills. From electric vehicles to low-carbon logistics, businesses rely on engineers who understand power electronics, machines, and drives (PEMD). Without local expertise, growth can slow and opportunities for residents may be lost.
Thames Freeport has put skills development at the core of its mission to build a high-productivity, low-carbon economy. Our PEMD Programme demonstrates the power of collaboration between industry, academia, and the Freeport partnership to remove barriers and create new career pathways. For community members and employers, it shows that targeted upskilling leads to better jobs, stronger businesses and real progress toward net-zero skills.
Introducing Thames Freeport’s PEMD Pilot Programme
Thames Freeport brings together DP World London Gateway, Port of Tilbury, and Ford Dagenham to form a globally competitive industrial corridor driven by innovation and clean growth. Central to this vision is a workforce prepared to design, build, and maintain the next generation of electrified systems.
To advance this goal, we launched the Power Electronics, Machines and Drives (PEMD) Programme with Coventry University’s Centre for Advanced Low-Carbon Propulsion Systems (C-ALPS) and North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College. The pilot delivered two courses locally:
- PEMD Fundamentals (3 days): A hands-on introduction for engineers new to power electronics.
- PEMD Intermediate (4 days): An advanced course for those ready to deepen their expertise.
This two-tiered structure provided a clear learning pathway for both new entrants and experienced professionals, equipping them with skills they could use immediately.
Addressing Local Skills Gaps
Most PEMD training was previously located outside the region, forcing businesses to send staff on costly, time-consuming trips. This created a skills gap:
- Time and travel pressure: Engineers had to leave their roles for extended periods.
- High costs: Employers faced expenses for travel, accommodation, and lost productivity.
- Limited access: Courses filled quickly, leaving local talent waiting for opportunities.
- Fragmented progression: Few programmes offered a route from fundamentals to advanced learning.
The PEMD Pilot Programme was designed to address these barriers and provide accessible training close to home.
Delivering Impact: Outcomes and Community Benefits
The pilot delivered strong results: 20 engineers participated and every learner achieved formal certification, resulting in a 100 percent pass rate. These newly qualified specialists are now applying their PEMD knowledge in factories, ports, and logistics hubs.
Immediate benefits included:
- Sharper technical skills: Graduates can model, test, and optimise motor control systems and troubleshoot real-world issues.
- Reduced downtime and costs: Trained staff help keep critical assets running efficiently.
- Career progression: Engineers gained industry-recognised credentials for advancement in low-carbon roles.
- Talent retention: Access to local, high-quality training helps employers retain skilled staff.
- Community confidence: Visible upskilling initiatives show that new technologies create opportunities for local residents.
Learners praised the programme’s mix of theory and practice. “The course has really helped me understand how subcomponents are used to control electricity through a vehicle,” said Adam Green. Simon Davenport found it “a good mix… very useful.” Bryan Williams added, “Highly recommend, especially for those wanting to reinforce knowledge as tech moves forward.”
The pilot’s success has encouraged employers to support future cohorts, and course leaders are exploring new modules for sectors like aerospace, industrial automation, and renewable energy.
Supporting Net-Zero and Sustainable Growth
Cutting carbon from transport and manufacturing depends on advanced electrical systems. By accelerating PEMD skills, the pilot directly supports Thames Freeport’s Net-Zero ambitions and the shift to sustainable industry:
- Greener operations: Trained engineers drive energy efficiency in key assets.
- Faster electrification: Local expertise shortens lead times for electric vehicle and infrastructure projects.
- Economic resilience: In-house PEMD skills help companies compete in growth sectors.
- Future-proof careers: Residents access technical roles needed for a low-carbon future.
- Stronger innovation: Partnerships between industry, education, and the Freeport foster ongoing R&D and commercial deployment.
The Thames Freeport continues to build on its strong skills programme and we welcome any views you have on what could make it stronger.
enquires@thamesfreeport.com
