Trailer manufacturer Cartwright wants to hire 40 new apprentices to support the company’s expansion.
The apprenticeships are targeted at 16-19 year olds and the Altrincham-based company held an open day on June 8 when candidates took a factory tour and spoke to the directors, staff and apprentices.
Cartwright says the scheme, launched in 2012, has achieved retention rates well above the industry average. Apprentices have joined straight from school, from college or as an alternative to university.
With help from Stockport College, Cartwright developed the two-year apprenticeship programme which leads to a Level 2 engineering apprenticeship which includes college day release for workshop training.
On successful completion of Level 2, and subject to interest and aptitude, there will be an opportunity for the apprentices to continue to Level 3 and ultimately HND level to further enhance their career prospects.
In their first year the apprentices will undergo six rotations within individual departments every eight weeks so they can experience each stage of the manufacturing process before selecting an area in which to specialise.
During their apprenticeship they will develop a comprehensive set of skills in welding, hydraulic, electrical and air fitting and testing, general fitting and assembly, machine operating, finishing and pre-delivery inspection. Indeed a high percentage of the apprentices providing valuable input particularly in welding and coach building which are two popular areas among the young recruits.
An additional module of 3D design is being added providing an additional dimension to the programme and Cartwright has gifted 60 licences for its 3D Design Software to Stockport College further demonstrating Cartwright’s commitment to the scheme.
An open day for the 2013 apprentice intake took place at the company’s head office in Broadheath, Altrincham on Saturday June 8.
It will be followed by the next stage of the selection process – a three-day workshop and practical assessment at Stockport College which will comprise a mix of workshop activities, teamwork and theoretical skills.
