South Yorkshire-based Sheffield Forge-masters International Ltd (SFIL), a heavy engineering company, has welcomed its largest ever intake of apprentices — 33 — recruited from across South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire.

Rick Frankeiss, group training manager (www.sheffieldforgemasters.com), said: “We are delighted to welcome these forward-thinking individuals and look forward to helping them establish life-long careers with good salaries, plus the chance to progress to the highest levels of the business.

“This year’s apprentices intake is fundamental to the future of this company, as we plan ahead and manage succession
and retirements within our operations.

"The company is making a huge commitment in terms of wages, training fees and mentoring time, but it is an investment
for the long term. Three apprentices joined earlier in the year, we inducted 27 in September, and we have three more starting in a few months from now, taking the year’s total intake to 33.

“Because the work we undertake at Sheffield Forgemasters is unique, we have to develop our own skills base and
so appoint trainees in jobs such as pattern making, machining, foundry work, maintenance roles, welding, fitting, administration and research and development — it covers virtually all of our operations.”