West Midlands Mayor, Andy Street, heard the views and concerns of the region’s apprentices, when he visited Make UK’s Technology Hub in Aston, Birmingham, to meet the latest cohort of engineering apprentices and Make UK’s apprentice ambassadors.

Mr Street was taken on a brief tour of the training facility and spoke to apprentices that have just started their apprenticeships at Make UK in a variety of engineering roles. He then joined Make UK’s apprenticeship ambassadors for an informal chat, where they were able to put forward their questions on skills, jobs and apprenticeships.

The ambassadors also presented him with a special hoodie which they are selling to raise money for their two chosen charities Standing Tall and Papyrus.

Standing Tall works alongside forward-thinking businesses, helping people experiencing homelessness to get back into the world of work. Papyrus provides confidential support and advice to young people struggling with thoughts of suicide.

Andy Street, West Midlands Mayor, said: “Apprenticeships have a pivotal role to play in the success of the West Midlands, particularly when it comes to manufacturing. They are also a brilliant way to help get people back into work following the pandemic as part of my 100,000 jobs plan.

“That is why I was so keen to visit Make UK’s Technology Hub and meet the latest cohort of apprentices working at the site, as well as speak to the apprentice ambassadors.”

Stephen Mitchell, director of apprentices and technical training at Make UK said: “It was great for our new apprentice intake to meet the mayor, and for our ambassadors to put their views to Mr Street, and hear his plans to promote the skills agenda, which will ultimately shape their future careers.”

For more information on apprenticeships with Make UK, call 0121 344 7900 or email .