New SkillsLab Training Programme

Leeds, UK – May 2026 – Area Four Industries UK (A4IUK) is proud to announce the official launch of the new SkillsLab Training Programme at the upcoming PLASA Leeds.




Developed to support the evolving needs of the live events and entertainment technology sector, the A4IUK SkillsLab platform provides industry professionals with access to a growing portfolio of specialist educational and technical training programmes across the Area Four Industries brand family including: EXE Technology, MILOS, LITEC and PROLYTE.
Based at the A4IUK Innovation Centre in Holbeach Hurn, Lincs, SkillsLab has been created to equip riggers, technicians, engineers, production professionals, and venue teams with the practical knowledge and technical skills required of today’s modern workforce. The initiative reflects A4IUK’s ongoing commitment to raising industry standards, supporting personal development, and promoting safe and efficient working practices across the sector.
Glen Brown, Managing Director A4IUK said: “SkillsLab is about investing in people. At the new Area Four Industries Innovation Centre, we are creating a space where knowledge, practical experience and innovation come together to help shape a safer, stronger and more skilled future for our industry.”
Launching as the first official SkillsLab offering, A4IUK will deliver a series of 2 day EXE Rise Advanced Maintenance Training Workshops scheduled throughout 2026. These hands-on workshops are designed to provide in-depth technical training for riggers, technicians and service professionals working with EXE Rise chain hoist systems, covering advanced maintenance procedures, inspection standards, operational best practices, and long-term product care.
The training programme combines hands-on practical learning and classroom theory with direct access to A4IUK’s technical specialists and facilities, ensuring participants gain real-world expertise that can be immediately applied on completion.
Matthew Millward, Head of Automation A4IUK said: “Professional training enhances competency, reduces downtime, and significantly improves safety. For many years, I have shared my expertise in chain hoists in a largely informal, ad hoc manner. SkillsLab represents a major step forward, enabling me to bring that experience together into a structured, comprehensive training programme. Our new training centre, complete with dedicated workshop and presentation suites, offers a comfortable, controlled, and safe learning environment. Combined with a touch of hospitality and a selection of merchandise, we are confident that every attendee will leave with valuable knowledge—and a strong desire to return for more.”
 

 
The SkillsLab platform will continue to expand throughout 2026 with additional courses and specialist workshops across the wider A4I brand portfolio. Learn, Lead and succeed with the A4IUK SkillsLab offering and access a range of insightful educational training programmes to provide the necessary skills for a competent modern workforce.
Visitors attending PLASA Leeds will have the opportunity to learn more about the programme, upcoming workshop dates, and future training opportunities directly from the A4IUK team on stands R-D18 and R-D19.
For further information about A4IUK’s SkillsLab and the upcoming EXE Rise Advanced Maintenance Training workshops, visit: Area Four Direct UK — Courses List