The main aim is about improving competitiveness for the sector and members. This is supported by objectives such as, up-skilling, multi-skilling, increasing the value of employees, sustaining employment, developing knowledge workers, providing certified courses, networking and sharing information, developing internal training resources within the network companies, fostering innovation and the exploitation of technology, underpinning strategic action in operations.

The training falls into three categories, GMIT accredited training, one-day seminars/workshops, and short technical courses, which may also be accredited.

• The GMIT accredited training is based on current and new modules specifically for the industry from GMIT Letterfrack. The modules have to be converted into distance learning courses, with flexible modes of delivery aimed at adult industry based learners. This is necessary because the courses are simply not accessible by industry in their current location, format and mode of delivery. An unprecedented innovation proposed by GMIT involves training 'internal' trainers for companies, so that subsequently companies can have their own trainer to deliver GMIT's machine technology modules in their own premises. GMIT can evaluate and accredit the internal trainees. The training of trainers modules is part of this proposal for funding, the subsequent internal training is not.
• National (and occasionally international) experts will deliver the seminars/workshops on a range of priority topics. Certificates of completion/attendance will be available. The seminars will be delivered in central locations.
• The short technical courses are a response to immediate skills gaps. Some of the courses will be delivered at member premises, some at supplier premises, and some at agreed central locations, depending on the resources required. Suitable accreditation may be available for many courses.

The direct outcomes of the network activities are essentially the improvement in knowledge, skills and competencies of the trainees. The follow-on outcomes will be evident in the changes effected within the member companies, and improvement in performance. The overriding outcome will be the improvement in competitiveness of the members and sector.

This Accel project is quite simply about improving sector and member competitiveness. Every activity is part of a strategy to move the members to a new competitive position. The emphasis is on moving the up the value chain, competing on service, design and innovation, and placing the knowledge worker at the centre of the business.

The knowledge, skills and competencies being transferred in this programme will increase the value of every trainee. The unique approach to providing accredited programmes will give every person the opportunity to achieve recognised qualifications while still working. The value to the economy as a whole of having highly qualified knowledge workers in this industry will be significant in future years.