The Sheffield-based cutting-tool specialist WNT (UK) Ltd (www.wnt.com) has announced that it has become the first Premium Partner for GTA England — a role that will see it provide advice and support to all GTAs (Group Training Associations).

This long-term agreement reinforces WNT’s commitment to the UK manufacturing sector and recognises the need to contribute to training the next generation of engineers. This partnership with GTA England and its members will see WNT (UK)’s technical sales engineers assist ‘technicians of the future’ in their training by providing technical advice.

WNT (UK) will also give GTA England members access to its 50% discount scheme for educational establishments — and provide training days for apprentices, in order for them to gain an insight and appreciation of modern cutting-tool techniques.

Furthermore, every member of WNT (UK)’s technical sales team is a STEM Ambassador supporting the company’s efforts to promote a positive image of engineering to students and apprentices.

Tony Pennington, WNT (UK)’s managing director, said: “Over the past 15 years, WNT has grown to be one of the top-five cutting-tool suppliers in the UK. In order to continue this growth, we need a strong manufacturing base with highly skilled individuals to drive engineering forward.

Therefore, we are delighted to be partnering GTA England and its members, as they have the same desire to encourage future generations.

“In becoming GTA England’s first Premium Partner, WNT (UK) will also be sponsoring the first ever GTA England Apprentice of the Year Awards.”

GTA England (www.gta-england.co.uk) was established in 2009 to benefit member GTAs, with the aim of raising the profile of GTAs, presenting a compelling case to funding organisations, working with Government and both improving and standardising quality across the GTA network.