Project: Anything’s Possible CIC – A New Project Controls Academy Launched to Break Barriers and Transform Futures in West Cumbria

Prima Uno has officially launched Project: Anything’s Possible CIC, a new Project Controls Academy designed to break down barriers to employment and address the critical skills shortage impacting nuclear, infrastructure and construction projects across West Cumbria.

The Academy has been shaped through extensive engagement with youth groups, Job Centre participants, and vulnerable communities to ensure the programme reflects the lived experiences, needs, and aspirations of those who are furthest from employment.

With economic inactivity, mental health challenges, domestic abuse, limited transport links, digital exclusion, and systemic disadvantage affecting thousands locally, the Academy offers a structured and supportive three‑year apprenticeship pathway to those furthest away for employment from 18+ with no upper age cap.. This includes wraparound pastoral care, soft‑skills and coaching, technical mentoring, rotational learning, and industry‑aligned project controls training.

The programme also responds directly to the severe shortage of project controls professionals across nuclear and major infrastructure projects. Employers increasingly rely on external contractors due to limited local capacity, creating economic leakage and project delivery challenges. The Academy aims to build a strong homegrown talent pipeline, strengthening the local economy and improving social mobility across West Cumbria.

A Statement from Sarah Purdham, Managing Director, Prima Uno

“At Prima Uno, we’ve always believed that business should be a force for good, and this is a truly proud moment. The launch of Project: Anything’s Possible as our new Project Controls Academy is more than the start of an apprenticeship pathway it is a commitment to social value, inclusive growth, and creating life‑changing opportunities for those who need them most. By combining technical training with wraparound pastoral support, we are addressing real skills shortages while proving that when communities invest in people, Anything’s Possible.”

The Academy has already seen strong early interest, with 22 individuals engaging ahead of the first selection day. The first apprenticeship cohort begins February 2026, with ongoing recruitment planned every six months.

For further information, employer engagement opportunities, or to explore collaboration, please contact:
info@primauno.co.uk