ERIKS, a leading industrial services provider, has initiated its newly designed apprenticeship programme, demonstrating its commitment to nurturing the next generation of engineers and bridging the engineering skills gap.
Thirteen apprentices, aged between 17 and 27, have embarked on Level 3 Engineering qualifications at various ERIKS locations across the United Kingdom. In contrast to concerns about a lack of interest in engineering careers in the UK, ERIKS received an overwhelming response to its apprenticeship programme, with 500 individuals applying for the opportunity.
The programme, developed by Lori Broadhurst, Talent Development Partner at ERIKS, represents an investment of £30,000 per apprentice. Its primary goal is to “futureproof the company’s workforce by not only cultivating career-specific skills but also fostering a sense of community among apprentices,” according to Lori.
While apprentices will primarily refine their skills at their respective sites, they will convene every 4-6 weeks for “block release learning” at SMB College in Leicester. This approach ensures a well-rounded formal engineering education, complemented by practical, hands-on experience.
The selection process was rigorous, encompassing CV screenings, telephone interviews, and in-person assessments. Candidates culminated their journey with an ‘Insight Day,’ immersing themselves in the ERIKS work environment firsthand.
While this inaugural year focuses on engineering apprenticeships, ERIKS plans to expand the programme into other areas such as sales, service, supply chain management, finance, and human resources in the future.
ERIKS’ employees have enthusiastically embraced this initiative, demonstrating their adaptability and support for the apprenticeship scheme. Lori Broadhurst noted, “Everybody has really jumped in feet-first and helped tremendously in supporting the process.”
As the November 2024 application cycle approaches, ERIKS is committed to refining its selection process, incorporating psychometric testing and behavioral analysis to ensure fairness and objectivity.
In the long term, the company aims to expand its early career development offerings, including a graduate programme and other initiatives. Lori concludes, “We are establishing this programme to make it as successful as possible, paving the way for the future.”
ERIKS’ new apprenticeship programme signals a proactive approach to addressing the engineering skills gap and cultivating a skilled workforce for the future.