The James Kane Foundation plays a pivotal role in supporting MEGA (Manufacturing & Engineering Growth & Advancement), a dynamic network of 60 Mid Ulster manufacturing companies. Focused on addressing critical skills shortages, MEGA fosters collaboration between industry, government, and education to drive regional economic growth.
The James Kane Foundation’s funding underpins MEGA’s innovative Mentor Now programme, enabling two dedicated mentoring roles that promote apprenticeship growth, strengthen college/university-industry engagement, and spearhead initiatives like the Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprenticeship.
These mentoring roles are integral to MEGA’s mission of transforming careers through tailored training and robust industry-academic collaboration. Mentors ensure apprentices receive comprehensive guidance, contributing to a 95% retention rate in MEGA’s degree apprenticeship programme. By addressing the skills imbalance in Northern Ireland, the mentoring team not only supports over 45 participating companies but also fosters a diverse talent pipeline and enhances employee retention by 30%.
Through outreach initiatives that engage over 5,000 students annually, MEGA is transforming regional workforce development by inspiring and equipping the next generation of talent. The James Kane Foundation’s investment underscores a strong commitment to cultivating a skilled, future-ready workforce that drives economic growth while enriching local communities.
