Nick Wilkinson joining, is an important step as the Centre’s leatherwork training courses and facilities continue to grow, as the community of students and specialist visiting tutors from the UK and overseas increases.
Taking on the role has particular personal significance for Nick, a former soldier, who first came to Walsall Leather Skills Centre while navigating the transition from military to civilian life.
“Over the past two years, the Centre has given me somewhere to go, skills to focus on learning. Most importantly, it’s given me a community and a real sense of purpose,” said Nick. “It’s incredibly special to now use my military career skills in leadership, planning and resource management to contribute to the Centre in a different way – to help it – and its community – continue to grow and develop.”
Working closely with Patrick Burns, Executive Director, Nick takes responsibility for key operational areas including scheduling and practical day-to-day running of the Centre.
The Walsall Leather Skills Centre works with artisan craftspeople and industry specialists to deliver its year-round leather work training schedule, which gives students access to high quality, practical skills and expertise.
“Nick and I will work closely together”, said Patrick. “Our collective job is to enable the delivery of quality leatherwork training and do everything we can to ensure students have the best possible learning experience. As the Centre develops, Nick’s appointment gives us additional strength and experience within the team. I am delighted to have him on board.”
The appointment represents an important step in the continuing development of Walsall Leather Skills Centre, strengthening the team behind its specialist training offering and helping build the Centre’s future.
Nick added “I look forward to working closely with everyone and getting stuck in. I genuinely care about this Centre and what it represents. I’m absolutely over the moon to now be part of the team and cannot wait to get started.”
