Training a future-fit workforce In our last issue, managing director Lisa Kerford highlighted the skills challenges facing the utilities workforce as construction moves towards a greener and more sustainable future. We also explored the impact of green technologies and net zero targets. Here’s a look at some of the ways we are preparing our workforce for the future.
Ben commented: “ I’m enjoying the office-based learning – I had no idea about the variety of job roles before I came to Aptus and I’m excited about the opportunities the placement can lead to. ” Aptus Academy T Level students attended their first Aptus Academy workshop in October. The Academy supports colleagues who are on a training and development plan, offering opportunities to develop skills, as well enhancing business knowledge and promoting teambuilding. James Crawford , Founder & Director of Touchpoint Change AI Consulting, attended the workshop to talk about artificial intelligence (AI), encouraging members to explore the ways AI can increase productivity and creativity. This sparked a discussion around privacy concerns and deepfakes, and stimulated ideas for enhancing processes and communication. Georgia Moss , a recent graduate of our business administration apprenticeship programme, exemplifies the growing confidence of our Academy members. She supported our new T Level students in the street lighting department, where Georgia herself completed her apprenticeship and now works as a technical administrator.
Our apprenticeship programme and training Academy are pivotal in developing talent for the evolving needs of our business. The introduction of T Levels has been significant, allowing us to attract a new technically skilled generation. T Level work placements allow students to spend two days a week in the office, enabling us to customise training for an optimal experience that supports their technical qualification. Tom Daly , from our first cohort, was offered a full-time position as a trainee AutoCAD technician. Nineteen-year-old Tom credits his T Level in Mechanical Engineering with Bolton College for helping him get a foot in the door at Aptus. Tom said: “ The CAD training I received during classroom learning gave me a foundation to build on during my time in the design team.” He added: “I wouldn’t have secured my current role if it were not for choosing the T Level route. ” T Levels allow learning providers and employers to design the training in collaboration, making them an ideal career pathway into the construction and utilities sector. Tommy Maye and Ben McKay are on placement through Wigan & Leigh College. To complement their design-focused T Level in Civil Engineering, they will be rotated within our CAD, administration and design teams. Our 2024 cohort demonstrate the value of T Levels for both employer and student. Tommy said: “ I chose the T Level route because the work experience is a really important addition to my CV. I think the experience will help me to decide what pathway to take next, either continuing onto further study or choosing to start a career. ”
08 APTUS CONNECTIONS // ISSUE 18
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