RTC MatchUp at INDUMATION brings together engineering schools and technology companies around workplace learning

On 4 February, RTC Flanders is organising the RTC MatchUp during INDUMATION. This networking event brings together technical schools, manufacturing companies and technology suppliers with one clear ambition: building sustainable collaborations around workplace learning, talent development and technology support.

Technical and STEM-focused training today increasingly clashes at borders. Schools do not always have the most up-to-date machinery, tools or technological knowledge to best prepare students for the labour market. At the same time, companies are looking for ways to guide and enthuse young technical talent early on for a career in industry.

According to Sammy Decoene, director of RTC West Flanders, collaboration is at the heart of the solution. “Workplace learning is today one of the most effective ways for companies to discover and shape future technical talent. By connecting schools and companies directly, we create added value for both.”

With the MatchUp, RTC Flanders wants to support education professionals by bringing them into contact with industrial production companies and technology suppliers. This gives schools access to expertise, infrastructure and concrete forms of cooperation such as company visits, shared use of machines and pathways around workplace learning. For companies and exhibitors, this initiative provides a structural channel to integrate their technologies into training and reach young people already during their school career.

The programme starts at 16.00 and includes a content section on the importance and impact of workplace learning. Besides Sammy Decoene, Jean-Paul Commeene, manager of Comet Technics, and Frederik Bevernage, director of VTI Menen, will share their vision and practical experiences. This will be followed by a networking moment with speed dates in which RTCs from various regions actively guide schools and companies towards relevant partners.

Participation is free of charge. Interested schools, companies and technology suppliers can register via www.indumation.be.

Who is the RTC MatchUp for?

1. Every responsible person within a manufacturing company responsible for training and recruiting new and future technical talent in the company
2. Any technology supplier willing to partner with technical schools and training centres and provide crucial technology
3. Any technical education institution or training centre that wants to create long-term added value through innovative partnerships with both manufacturing companies and technology suppliers

PLANNING

16:00 | Reception

16:15 | Welcome by Sammy Decoene, Director RTC West Flanders

• The importance of workplace learning By Sammy Decoene - Director RTC West Flanders
• Good practices including Jean-Paul Commeene (business manager of Comet Technics)
• Frederik Bevernage, director of VTI Menen, shares their experience: how collaboration with companies enriches education
• A company speaking: unlocking young potential

16:30 - 17:30 | Networking opportunities and speed dates with technical schools.