Apprenticeships Work – Build your career in construction and manufacturing

Plymouth’s leading construction and manufacturing businesses will take part in a huge joint apprenticeship recruitment drive as part of National Apprenticeships Week 2018.

Building Plymouth and the Plymouth Manufacturers’ Group (PMG) have joined forces to organise an inspiring Apprenticeship Jobs Fair on Saturday 10 March, 10am-3pm in the Plymouth Guildhall.

Aimed at engaging young people, their parents and family, as well as adults who are considering a career change, the Fair aims to promote that ‘apprenticeships work’ and to showcase the breadth of opportunities across these two high growth sectors.

Local employers including AECOM, Babcock International, BD, Gilpin Demolition, Kawasaki Precision Machinery, Kier Construction, Mars Wrigley, Midas Construction, Pipex, Princess Yachts, SWH Group, TClarke, Ward Williams Associates and YGS Landscapes, will be promoting careers and vacancies across trade, technical and professional pathways.

Council Leader Ian Bowyer who will open the Fair and also present the Construction Apprentice of the Year Awards said: “We know Apprenticeships Work – they offer a valid alternative route into careers at all levels including degree level, and they provide businesses with the skills they need to support improved productivity and competitiveness. It is fantastic to see these two high growth sectors working together again to promote these diverse apprenticeship opportunities available for local people. As a city we are committed to grow the number of apprentices and I am delighted to see that at this time, Plymouth is bucking the national trend of declining apprenticeship starts with a 6% increase compared to the national drop of 4% last year. It is particularly encouraging to see significant growth in apprenticeship starts amongst 25 year+ learners’ which shows that apprenticeship opportunities are open to any age.”

Steve Gerry, Secretary for PMG said: “Following on from the success of our event last year, the PMG are once again pleased to be jointly hosting this Jobs Fair with Building Plymouth. Between us, we are home to two of Plymouth economy’s largest sectors: construction and manufacturing. This year’s event is the biggest to date and we very much look forward to opening the doors of Plymouth Guildhall to welcome everyone who is interested in making the first step of what could be the career of a lifetime.”

Emma Hewitt, Building Plymouth Skills Co-ordinator said: “Apprenticeships present a fantastic opportunity to earn while you learn and to get recognised and relevant qualifications whilst taking your next step on the career ladder. We know that of all sectors, construction requires the largest number of apprentices to help overcome the skills shortages and skills gaps. Our Fair will be the perfect place to get inspired, to find out more about becoming an apprentice and to vastly improve your chances of securing an apprenticeship – do not miss it!”

There will be a chance to try your hand at taster activities, demonstrations, competitions and also to meet current apprentices already working in these dynamic and growing industries. Gilpin Demolition and Princess Yachts will also be exhibiting a yacht and demolition plant outside the Guildhall.

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