Finning looks to fill apprenticeship engineering roles

Demeki Watson is an apprentice with Finning at the company’s Cannock HQ

FINNING is looking to recruit the next generation of engineers through its apprenticeship scheme, with roles available throughout the country including in Glasgow.

The authorised dealer of Cat equipment in the UK and Ireland said the latest retention rates showed that over 90% of apprentices were employed by the company on successful completion of their apprenticeship. Finning apprentices are also said to earn 39% more than the national minimum wage for training schemes.

The company is looking to fill 24 positions in Glasgow, Winsford, Cannock, Llantrisant, Peterborough, Ashford, Chesterfield, Leeds, Lisburn, Nanpean and Dublin.

The apprenticeship scheme is open to people of all ages and backgrounds, from school leavers up to people seeking a mid-life career change. Finning added that it is an equal opportunities employer, proactive in supporting women in engineering positions, as well as being Disability Confident committed and signed up to the Armed Forces covenant.

Currently there are 62 apprentices at Finning working to complete the four-year apprenticeship programme. For 44-year-old Ahad Miah the scheme has given him the chance to restart his career.

He said, “As an older apprentice, I’d approached several companies in the hope somebody would give me the opportunity to learn new skills. Having looked on the website I could see how inclusive Finning were and that I could have a real chance if I was to apply.

“I’ve felt supported from the very moment I submitted my application. Before the interview process, I was extremely nervous, having not had an interview in over 20 years. I was reassured every step of the way. The support continues now, even as an employed apprentice. If I ever have any problems, there is always somewhere to turn.

“In the short time, I have been with Finning I feel like I’m already part of the team and starting to make a difference. I would 100% recommend the Finning apprenticeship scheme. I felt like no one was willing to give me a chance, but I’ve been given a great opportunity, even at the ripe old age of 44.”

The salary rises year-on-year in line with skill development. On successful completion, an apprentice with Finning will be offered a permanent position within the company.

Craig Smallman, apprenticeships quality manager at Finning, is a former apprentice himself. He said, “There are so many great people that have come through the apprenticeship programme. It’s a great fit if you are interested in engineering and learning. The Finning scheme highlights the importance of education, as well as on the job experience, and supports apprentices with whatever they need to succeed within the company.

“Employees are well looked after and will get out what they put in; if apprentices are ready to work and interested in learning they will reap the rewards. If you want to succeed, Finning is the place to work.”

Interested parties can apply online.