Students in County Tyrone will be among the first in the UK to train on a hydrogen fuel engine rig.
South West College, Omagh is the first college to use the technology in its automotive courses.
Recent research highlights the gap in skills for new technologies required for the transition to a zero-carbon economy.
Hydrogen is a low-emission fuel that has the potential to reduce the carbon footprint of sectors such as transport.
College staff have been training at the facility to prepare for the students who will begin classes in September.
James Brady, the EV Advisory Advisor, worked with the tutors.
“This is a very exciting development for South West College and for education in Northern Ireland to give our students the opportunity to explore technology that is not even readily available on the street.”
“It’s a technology that all major manufacturers are moving towards.”
Pat O’Hanlon, director of the automotive and electrical department at South West College, said it was a natural step for the college after investing in hybrid and electric blocks.
“We see it as the future. In Germany, for example, there are a hundred hydrogen filling stations, in Holland 20 or 30, in Belgium 20 or 30.”
“So at some point there will be a hydrogen infrastructure. It’s only a matter of time before students have to learn about it.”
“These cars are already in production.”
Hydrogen courses have been introduced at other post-secondary institutions, with more being developed by the examination boards.
Transportation is one of eight industries examined in the Energy & Utility Skills Department of Commerce report.
It was found that alternative routes to qualifications in all areas would be required in addition to university.
It added that there should be targeted support for training and employment opportunities in green sectors for all adults, regardless of academic status.
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