Training and skills development is at the heart of future-proofing a business as recognised by a global foundry supply company, which has an impressive track record of investing in apprentices who go on to become integral to the company’s growth.
As production manager at Omega Sinto Foundry Machinery Ltd, Alan Stones is an important cog in a well-oiled machine. He allocates labour resources and tracks production schedules to ensure that Omega Sinto’s manufacturing processes run reliably and efficiently. It’s a vital part of any engineering facility and a position that Stones earned thanks to his abilities and the company’s commitment to formal training and developing its people.
Stones’ journey began with the world-leading manufacturer of chemically bonded sand equipment and no bake solutions when he started working there in 2001 as a workshop fitter. Having served an engineering apprenticeship, he went on to a Higher National Diploma Course (HNC) in electrical engineering. As his career progressed, Stones recognised the value of apprenticeships and was particularly passionate about introducing an apprenticeship pathway at Omega to offer the same opportunities he had to others.
Supported by the company, Stones worked closely with The Peterborough College to develop an apprenticeship that best suits Omega’s needs.
Eighteen apprentices have been employed at Omega Sinto since 2003, predominantly in engineering roles with either a mechanical or electrical engineering bias. Of those, ten progressed to HNC/HND level. Two then progressed to an engineering degree, thus highlighting the impact continued training and development has for those willing to progress their careers with a forward-thinking organisation.
More recently the company has offered apprenticeships in other parts of the business with business administrator Lisa Earl undertaking a Level 3 Admin apprenticeship. She passed with a distinction and went on to be nominated for Business & Law Apprentice of the Year at the Peterborough Telegraph Apprenticeship Awards, which recognises the achievements of trainees in the Peterborough region.
Such is the success of the engineering based apprenticeships and Lisa Earl’s administration apprenticeship that Omega Sinto is now looking to grow its support of apprenticeships throughout the business in various departments.
There are apprenticeships available for thousands of different jobs in a range of industries in the UK. From something hands-on like engineering, nursing or construction, to a career in marketing, law or project management.
In terms of the foundry industry, apprenticeships are a crucial tool to develop the next generation of industry technicians and engineers – they can be used to upskill existing employees to higher levels of knowledge or to train new recruits.
With an apprenticeship, most of the learning is through on-the-job training, whilst working towards a qualification at the same time. Those undertaking an apprenticeship get paid a salary just like a regular employee, and they get dedicated study time throughout the week.
Training for apprentices is free for many companies and there is support available to help companies find an apprentice and for guidance through the process.