In-Comm Training Services Ltd, one of the UK’s leading providers of engineering and manufacturing apprenticeships, is calling on companies across the Black Country, Birmingham and Shropshire to take advantage of a record ‘200-strong pool of young talent’. The Aldridge and Telford-based training provider has already placed 125 apprentices with local employers and is now seeking placements for a further 75 candidates ahead of its October/November intake.
Paul Hodgetts, In-Comm Training’s business development manager, said: “This talent pool could be a godsend for firms struggling with recruitment. These young people are engaged, aptitude-tested and ready to make an impact on the shopfloor or in the design office.”
The surge in interest follows a major outreach campaign supported by a £25,000 donation from the Orlik family, in memory of Susan Orlik, and over £200,000 in contributions from Howmet, Brandauer and In-Comm Training. The funding enabled the STEM Engagement Fund to reach 15 new schools, engage 4,000 pupils and 50 teachers, and deliver taster days, STEM projects and access to the national
F1 in Schools competition.
Mr Hodgetts added: ‘Some of these students had never considered a career in engineering,” Hodgetts added. “But once they got hands-on with STEM activities, their enthusiasm was clear — over 200 signed up for apprenticeships.”
Candidates undergo mock interviews, taster sessions and aptitude testing before being matched with employers. In return, businesses gain access to In-Comm’s ‘state of the art’ technical academies, industry-experienced lecturers and a competency-led curriculum designed to deliver immediate value.
He concluded: “We hae never had such a large, motivated group of candidates. With the right employer support, we can turn this momentum into long-term skills development for the region.”