To mark National Apprenticeship Week, Phil Wilson MP visited Gestamp Tallent to learn more about the benefits apprenticeships offer to both business and apprentices. The visit began with an impressive presentation from first year Commercial Apprentice Emma Beauchamp. Emma detailed the importance of apprenticeships to Gestamp Tallent and the successes many enjoyed over the years. She highlighted the benefits apprenticeships can have for a business, especially during the national shortage of engineers, and how it tackles youth unemployment. Emma said; “My Apprenticeship at Gestamp Tallent not only boosted my confidence but also showed me the vast amount of opportunities available to me in the future. Everyone, no matter where they are in the company or what they do, are always happy to help and mentor me to be the best I can be. I couldn’t think of a better way, or place, to start my career.” Throughout the visit, Phil watched Technical apprentices deliver presentations to one another, met Maintenance apprentices in training, and saw apprentices at work, showing apprentices are an integral part of Gestamp.
With 43 apprentices, as well as 86 press setters and 35 welders currently upskilling, the value placed upon workforce development and on investment in employees was made clear to Mr Wilson. But Gestamp doesn’t just invest in their own apprentices and staff, along with Hitachi, Gestamp are currently in a mentoring programme at the UTC, helping facilitate and support students. David Pearson, from Gestamp said: “Apprenticeships prove to us year on year that they are the ideal platform on which our employees can build their careers and we will continue to provide major career opportunities for young people. The Apprenticeship programmes allow us to specify how the training is structured to ensure we give apprentices the skills required to be successful in their future roles while ensuring the business has the skill base to cover current and future opportunities.” Following the visit Mr Wilson said, “National Apprenticeship Week brings employers and apprentices together to celebrate the success of apprenticeships. Gestamp Tallent is great example of the benefits offered, and the success apprentices can achieve. Apprenticeships are not only important for businesses, but offer a valuable opportunity for young people to develop their skills and achieve success in a variety of different fields”
