Cannock-based Hainbuch UK Ltd (www.hainbuch.com), a work-holding technology specialist, has recruited its first-ever apprentice (from South Staffordshire College).

Following completion of his BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Engineering, Jacob Machin will join Hainbuch UK as an apprentice technical sales engineer.

Managing director Nick Peter said: “Work-holding technology is more widespread than you might think.

“You can find Hainbuch technology used to manufacture everyday objects, including turbochargers, printer rollers, automobile and marine engines, aircraft wings, saxophone keys, ravioli cans and even hip joints.

“All of this — and much more — is manufactured using our innovative clamping technology.

“Like many companies in the engineering sector we recognised a need for succession planning in our workforce.

“Our technical sales engineers are required to have a comprehensive understanding of a wide range of technical information in order to be able to suggest the right product and application to our customers, as well as solving complex problems, so we required a young person that already had a grounding in the general principles of engineering that we can invest our time and energy in to develop the required knowledge and skills for a long-term successful career with the company.”

Jacob will continue to study at the Cannock Engineering Campus of the college.

At some point in his development, he will also have the opportunity of a month-long visit to Hainbuch headquarters in Germany for comprehensive technical training on the full range of products.