A COLLEGE’S £12m education centre has received support from a North-East firm.

Middlesbrough College’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) Centre is being backed by Sembcorp Utilities UK.

The firm, based at Wilton, near Redcar, is donating equipment, including pumps, valves, fixings, fasteners and racking.

College bosses say the centre will train future engineers to meet employers’ needs across a wide range of sectors.

They added the site will operate as a simulated control of major accident hazards area to raise awareness and prevent effects of major accidents involving dangerous substances, such as chemicals, petroleum gas and explosives.

George Ritchie, Sembcorp senior vice president for HR, said: “It’s a critical time for industry on Teesside.

“The STEM Centre will play a vital role in bridging the skills gap, not just locally but right across the region, providing traineeships, apprenticeships, higher apprenticeships and bespoke training.”

The centre is due to open next year.

Zoe Lewis, college principal and chief executive, added: “We’re overwhelmed by the generosity shown by the management team at Sembcorp.

“We can assure them the equipment will be put to good use.”