In an unprecedented move, Wellglade Group subsidiary Trentbarton has declared an intention to offer an unlimited number of engineering apprenticeships this year. The firm traditionally welcomes around five apprentices annually.
Applicants stand a chance to integrate and learn within Trentbarton’s engineering teams. The company has arranged an open day on Saturday 20 May at its Langley Mill site, providing a platform for prospective apprentices to explore opportunities within the business.
John Bickerton, Group Engineering Director at Trentbarton, highlights the importance of the initiative. “We recognise that many young individuals are contemplating their future after school or college, and we aim to present a fantastic opportunity to as many of them as possible,” he says. “We are planning for the 2023 intake to be our largest yet, offering them an avenue to prosper in their new career while earning and learning the trade.”
John emphasises the growth prospects within the industry: “Many senior people in the bus industry started out as engineering apprentices, so they can all aim high.”
The value of the apprenticeship program is underscored by Vince Hourd, a current apprentice technician at Trentbarton who started his journey in 2019. He is now close to completing his qualification and notes the diversity of the role and the multitude of skills to be learned. He urges young individuals to attend the open day, which will give them a glimpse into a day in the life of a Trentbarton apprentice.
The operator’s inclusive approach was exemplified by its first female apprentice technician, 18-year-old Lucy Coope (pictured, above), who joined earlier this year.
