Osian becomes Coleg Menai’s newest engineering lecturer
The WorldSkills UK gold medallist has gone from apprentice to teacher, and students are reaping the benefits of his expertise in computer-aided manufacturing
WorldSkillsUK gold medallist Osian Roberts has become Coleg Menai’s newest engineering lecturer.
Osian won the CNC turning category in November’s WorldSkills UK finals, while studying one day per week at the college as part of his apprenticeship with manufacturing firm IAQ.
Now, he is passing on his skills to the next generation after joining the teaching staff at the Energy centre in Llangefni.
“I’m enjoying it,” said Osian. “I’m grateful for the opportunity and excited for the future. It’s a reality change being on the other side of the desk. It’s just about inspiring the next generation - I don’t think there’s anything quite like it.
“For myself it’s just improving and giving the opportunity for the students. Implementing the good work ethic that I’ve got from working, and carrying on the values of the college.”
Osian is teaching computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing - particularly the use of CNC machines.
CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control, and refers to a process of manufacturing led by a computer program.
Osian developed expertise in this field while working as a CNC turning centre operator for IAQ in his home town of Caernarfon.
While with IAQ, he completed his Level 3 Diploma in Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering before progressing onto a Higher National Certificate in General Engineering - both with Coleg Menai, where the current cohort are now benefiting from his knowledge.
Bryn Jones, Level 3 Mechanical/Manufacturing Engineering Programme Leader, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Osian to the engineering team.
“With expertise in CNC milling and turning, Osian's arrival has injected a fresh wave of enthusiasm and innovation into our department. It's no surprise that the students are already reaping the benefits of his insightful sessions.
“Here's to embracing new perspectives and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in our field. Welcome aboard!”
Osian is replacing Iwan Roberts, who was his personal tutor and taught him to use computer-aided design package Autodesk360 for the WorldSkills competitions.
He is the second past student to join the engineering department’s teaching staff recently, after Eva Voma was also appointed as a lecturer last term.
Eva, who studied from Level 3 up to degree apprenticeship level with the college, won the bronze medal in additive manufacturing at last year’s WorldSkills UK finals, and could be set to compete at WorldSkills 2024 in Lyon after being named in the UK squad.
Interested in learning more about the exciting world of engineering? For more information on courses at Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, click here. Applications are open now for September 2024 entry.