Global tool giant Milwaukee brings UK-first roadshow to Northern Regional College – with Ballymena next

Pictured are Oliver Mars of Milwaukee Tools, Noah Downie, a Northern Regional College student, first-year Electrical Installation apprentice and Regional Skill Build finalist, and Iain McCart, Lecturer in Electrical Installation at Northern Regional College.

Northern Regional College is set to bring a unique, hands-on industry experience to Ballymena next month after becoming the first college in the UK to host the Milwaukee Tools Roadshow.

The global power tool manufacturer rolled into the College’s Newtownabbey campus on Thursday 5 March with its iconic red vans, delivering a high-impact half-day event that gave students direct access to cutting-edge tools, live demonstrations and industry expertise.

Now, following its success, the roadshow is heading to the College’s £55 million Ballymena campus on Wednesday 15 April at 9am.

First-of-its-kind experience for students

The Newtownabbey event welcomed students from electrical installation, joinery, brickwork, plumbing, welding and engineering programmes, offering a rare opportunity to engage directly with one of the world’s leading manufacturers.

Through interactive workshops, live demos and hands-on sessions, students explored the latest professional-grade power and hand tools while gaining practical insight into evolving industry standards and best practice in health and safety.

The visit marked the first time Milwaukee has delivered its roadshow format within a UK college setting — a milestone that underscores Northern Regional College’s focus on bridging the gap between education and real-world industry.

‘Invaluable’ opportunity to build confidence

Pictured are Noah Downie, a Northern Regional College student, first-year Electrical Installation apprentice and Regional Skill Build finalist; Iain McCart, Lecturer in Electrical Installation at Northern Regional College; and Oliver Mars of Milwaukee Tools.

Iain McCart, Electrical Installation Lecturer at Northern Regional College, said:

“We are absolutely delighted to host Milwaukee Tools at our Newtownabbey campus. Giving our students the opportunity to hear directly from industry professionals and experience the latest tools and technologies first-hand is invaluable. It enhances their learning, builds their confidence and ensures they are work-ready when they progress into industry.”

Students also had the chance to speak with product specialists throughout the event, gaining insight into innovations shaping the future of construction and engineering trades.

Supporting the next generation of tradespeople

Olly Mars, Area Manager at Milwaukee Tools, highlighted the significance of the partnership:

“This is the first time in the UK that Milwaukee has brought our roadshow directly to a college environment.

“We are passionate about supporting the next generation of tradespeople and engineers. Northern Regional College is clearly committed to delivering industry-relevant training and we’re proud to play a part in that journey.”

Ballymena event set to build momentum

Following the strong response in Newtownabbey, attention now turns to Ballymena, where another cohort of students will benefit from direct engagement with the global brand.

The upcoming event is expected to further strengthen the College’s commitment to aligning its curriculum with real-world demands — ensuring students leave with not just qualifications, but the practical skills, confidence and industry awareness needed to succeed.

At a glance

• Northern Regional College hosted the first-ever UK college Milwaukee Tools Roadshow

• Event took place at the Newtownabbey campus on 5 March

• Students from multiple trade and engineering courses attended

• Activities included live demos, workshops and hands-on tool sessions

• Students engaged directly with industry specialists

• Milwaukee aims to support the next generation of tradespeople

• Roadshow now coming to Ballymena campus on 15 April at 9am

• Ballymena students will gain the same hands-on experience

• Event highlights the College’s strong industry partnerships

• Focus remains on preparing students for real-world careers