Danny Quirk, Owen Camps and Rhys Garlick joined Rochdale-based Holroyd Precision’s modern apprenticeship programme in 2011.
After completing the company’s four-year apprenticeship programme, which includes on-the-job training, an HNC in mechanical engineering and learning key engineering skills with training provider Rochdale Training, they were given the opportunity to continue their studies to degree level, and after seven years of hard work, they have graduated from the University of Huddersfield.
HR manager Mary McGrath said: “As a company, we are committed to investing in our workforce. Indeed, as part of our strategy of maintaining the exacting engineering standards that Holroyd Precision is renowned for, we look to take on a number of young people every year, developing their skills through a strong engineering-based apprenticeship programme that typically takes four years to complete.
"When we see exceptional talent — such as in the case of Danny, Owen and Rhys — we are also more than happy to invest further, by providing sponsorship to degree-level study and beyond. We really do aim to give our employees the best opportunities available.
“Equally importantly, when interviewing for each year’s apprentices, we look very carefully at where future skills gaps may exist in our business, as well as market trends and the on-going development of our technologies.
"This not only ensures sound succession planning but also gives each apprentice a real career opportunity to work towards.”
In addition to securing a BEng (Hons) degree, Holroyd’s graduates of 2018 have achieved impressive careers with the company.
Danny is a design engineer working on the company’s Powerstir friction stir welding programme, Owen is developing programming technologies for Holroyd’s machine tools, and Rhys is working as a quality engineer with Holroyd Precision Rotors.
The company is currently recruiting for its 2018 apprenticeship programme. For more information, visit the Web site (
www.holroyd.com/general/ptg-holroyd-jobs.php).