Caithness Firm JGC Believes in Modern Apprenticeships

13th May 2012

A LEADING engineering firm in the Highlands believes Modern Apprentices can help to shape the future of the industry in Scotland.

T3UK (www.t3uk.co.uk) the training division of JGC Engineering and Technical Services, is backing Skills Development Scotland's Scottish Apprenticeship Week (May 21 to 25).

Helen Mackay, who manages the firm's apprenticeship programme, explains: "JGC has always been very keen to invest in young people - they are, after all, the workforce of the future."

Currently, T3UK is working with 16 fabrication and welding and three electrical Modern Apprentices, supported by Skills Development Scotland, the ECITB and SECTT, with a further six mechanical Modern Apprentices expected to start in the autumn.

One of the young Modern Apprentices was named runner-up supply chain apprentice of the year at the UK Nuclear Skills Awards in March.

Michael Macaskill, 21, who lives in Strathy, near Thurso, says: "It was a great weekend, and I was really pleased to have made it to the final three. The Modern Apprenticeship is a great introduction into the industry and I like the mix of theory work at college and hands-on training with the company.

Find out more about Modern Apprenticeships.

John McClelland, Chair of Skills Development Scotland, said: "It has never been more important for businesses across Scotland to grow and develop a skilled workforce. Employers can find out how they can access support to help them to employ apprentices by calling our helpline on 0800 783 6000 or going onto our website www.sds.co.uk/modernapprenticeships."