Worcester-based Yamazaki Mazak has boosted its apprenticeship scheme by hiring 13 young local apprentices.
Yamazaki, a manufacturer of computer controlled machines, were initially looking for just five apprentices but were so impressed with the standard of applicants for the position, it decided to create 13 vacancies to accommodate the talent.
The new recruits will join seven existing apprentices, who have just completed their first year. Since Yamazaki opened in 1987, it has taken on over 100 apprentices.
David Barnett, training and development coordinator for Yamazaki Mazak, said: “Engineering apprenticeships offer young people an invaluable route into the world of work and help us to bridge the skills gap to ensure we remain at the forefront of machine tool development.”
He continued: “Helping young people to develop their skills and personal qualities enables them to become a valuable member of our workforce and simultaneously build a career in engineering.”
The apprentices will be working in the machining, sheet-metal and assembly departments at Mazak’s Warndon facility in Worcester. The program can last up to four years, including one year of off-job training at Worcester Group Training Association.
Alex Stockwell, 19, a former pupil at The Chase School in Malvern, commented: “Engineering offers a good career path and excellent opportunities. I am very grateful for the opportunity to work for such a great name in engineering.”
Guy Darby, 18, a former pupil at Droitwich Spa High School, added: “A Mazak apprenticeship is a brilliant opportunity to get into engineering. I’ve always been interested in engineering as a career and I am really looking forward to learning more about the world of machine tools.”
Yamazaki employs 500 people at its Warndon site, which is home to an advanced machine tool manufacturing facility.
