This National Apprenticeship Week, we reflect on the value of apprenticeships and Earn As You Learn schemes, for individuals, employers, and the industry as a whole.
Not only do apprenticeships allow the individual to gain new skills and develop confidence through hands-on learning, they also provide tangible benefits to employers, whilst actively contributing to the future of engineering.
Developing Talent
For over 60 years, PCE Automation has recognised the importance of its people.
‘Our People Make it Happen’ is one of our core values, and we understand that it is their creativity, collaboration, and expertise that allows us to deliver innovative solutions for our customers.
We have welcomed many apprentices over the years, and with 22 apprentices currently working across our sites, we see the value they bring on a daily basis. Our apprentices bring fresh perspectives and energy, helping to contribute to our ongoing success and growth.
It is this energy that fosters the culture of innovation that we are continually striving for, both within our company, and for the benefit of the industry.
The future of our industry hinges on the development of young talent. Not only do we need to ensure that we have a continuous supply of new talent coming into the industry to safeguard its future, but we also need to take the time to nurture this talent.
Our apprentices receive training, support, and plenty of opportunities to learn from more experienced colleagues. We encourage collaboration and we regularly see teams from different departments working together, using their unique skillsets to deliver innovative solutions.
This is a simple, but proven approach.
Many of our more senior members of staff who are now on the Board of Directors originally began their careers as engineering apprentices at PCE, including our current Group Sales Director, our Innovation Director, and our CEO.
Our commitment to investing in the next generation of professionals has been recognised by the 5% Club.
The 5% Club is a national initiative, dedicated to increasing the number of apprentices and graduates in the workforce. Each member goes through an Employer Audit, where benchmarking research is used to analyse their employment and recruitment of Earn As You Learn graduates.
PCE is very pleased to have achieved Platinum membership of the 5% Club. Platinum membership is awarded to employers that have achieved Gold membership for three consecutive years, and in year three, have a minimum of 10% of their workforce in earn and learn schemes.
Our participation in the 5% Club aligns perfectly with our broader strategy to promote innovation and sustainability through education and workforce development.
An Ongoing Commitment
Paul Smith, Training Coordinator said, “We are always delighted to welcome new apprentices into the group. It demonstrates PCE’s commitment to planning, investment and development of its workforce for long term growth”.
Welcoming these apprentices is more than an annual tradition at PCE Automation; it is a vital component of our mission to lead the industry through innovation, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to our people. We have seen first-hand the value that apprenticeships provide, and we remain dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for the next generation.
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