A ladder of opportunity to construction and manufacturing apprenticeships

Plymouth’s leading construction and manufacturing businesses will take part in a huge joint apprenticeship recruitment drive as part of National Apprenticeship Week 2017 (6 to 10 March).

Building Plymouth and the Plymouth Manufacturers Group (PMG) have joined forces to organise an inspiring Apprenticeship Jobs Fair on Saturday 4 March, 10am to 3pm in the Plymouth Guildhall.

Aimed at engaging with young people, their parents and family, as well as adults who are considering a career change, the Fair aims to promote the benefits of apprenticeships as a ladder of opportunity to a brighter future.

Local employers including Babcock International, Becton Dickinson, Gilpin Demolition, Kawasaki Precision Machinery, Kier, Midas, Princess Yachts and SWH Group will showcase current vacancies across trade, technical and professional route ways into construction and the built environment, manufacturing and engineering. 

Plymouth City Council Leader Ian Bowyer, who will open the Fair and also present the Construction Apprentice of the Year Award said: “It is fantastic to see these two high growth sectors working together to promote diverse apprenticeship opportunities which will help local businesses build their skilled workforce for the future. As a city we are committed to grow the number of apprentices.” 

Steve Gerry, Secretary of the PMG said: “This is the third year in a row that the PMG has held its Apprentice Jobs Fair in Plymouth Guildhall and this year we take a significant step forward by joining forces with our friends in ‘Building Plymouth’ which brings together many of the significant employers from within the local Construction Industry. It promises to be a major event with over thirty exhibitors offering literally hundreds of apprenticeships in two of our most exciting sectors in the City.”

Emma Hewitt, Building Plymouth Skills Co-ordinator said: “Apprenticeships represent a fantastic opportunity to earn while you learn and to get a recognised and relevant qualification 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 – don’t 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 kit outside of the Guildhall, and Street Factory will be livening up the event by performing Hi-Hop dance routines. 

For more information visit www.buildingplymouth.co.uk and www.mypmg.co.uk