Transport group invests in engineering apprenticeships
The FTA is now looking for suitable candidates to become “the budding engineers” of the future, it said.
Successful applicants will be based at one of Gist’s depots in Barnsley, Thatcham or Spalding. Apprentices will be trained in all aspects of engineering and spend time on-site with the FTA engineering team.
Engineer of the future
At the end of three-year scheme, apprentices will be given the opportunity to work with the association’s Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) engineers in order to develop the skills and knowledge they will need to become an FTA engineer of the future, said the group.
FTA director of operations June Powell said: “It has been publicly acknowledged that there is a skill shortage within many areas in our industry and as the UK’s leading transport trade association we cannot emphasise strongly enough how important it is to encourage young people to venture into a career in logistics.”
The FTA Gist Apprentice programme offers would-be engineers the opportunities and experience they will need to start their careers in logistics without going to university, she added.
‘Supported by a buddy’
“Each successful apprentice will be fully supported by a buddy and a mentor and given responsibility in their role from day one.”
From day one
“Each successful apprentice will be fully supported by a buddy and a mentor and given responsibility in their role from day one.”
June Powell, FTA
Gist engineering director Sam de Beaux said his organisation had for many years managed its own apprenticeship schemes to ensure experienced vehicle technicians were available to meet the needs of the business and currently had eight apprentices working in its Gist workshops.
“Gist is delighted to assist the FTA with the development of apprentice recruitment and training as we believe it is vital for the support of FTA and the wider distribution industry.”
More information about the FTA Gist Apprenticeship scheme are available here.
