Recruitment drive launched for engineering apprentices
A RECRUITMENT drive has been launched in a bid to attract new apprentices for a cable manufacturing plant at Hunterston.
The Modern Apprenticeship collaboration between Ayrshire College and XLCC marks the inception of a new green industry in the UK, after the establishment of its first factory at the Hunterston site.
The cable-jointing apprenticeship programme combines specialist welding training, electrical engineering knowledge and qualifications as well as workbased learning in welding.
A key component of the apprenticeship is an eight-week immersive training course at the SÜDKABEL jointing school in Germany, where apprentices develop essential skills working on Medium Voltage (MV) and High Voltage (HV) cable samples, preparing them for a successful career in the industry.
On returning to the UK, apprentices will receive on-the-job training and certification at XLCC’s new state-of-the-art facility in Irvine.
AlanMathers, businessoperations director at XLCC said: “The Arkwright Way facility in Irvine gives XLCC the platform to deliver a very high standard of training for our apprentices, with a focus on cable jointing skills development.
“Our dedicated training centre will help ensure that the apprentices have the necessary expertise to execute the jointing process effectively and efficiently within our Hunterston factory environment.
“We are proud to be playing a central role in stimulating economic growth in North Ayrshire and making a positive difference to community life.
“We are delighted with the engagement from Ayrshire College and their willingness to include cable manufacturing modules into their Performing Engineering
Operations course.
“Completion of this course is a springboard towards a successful application for a modern apprenticeship with XLCC supported by the college.”
XLCC has recently announced the leasing of a unit at Arkwright
Way in Irvine to serve as a dedicated training facility. The training centre is expected to be operational by June, offering a bespoke environment for apprentice training.
Candidates with a Performing Engineering Operations qualification are encouraged to apply, as this foundation provides the underpinning knowledge and skills needed for success in the programme.
This initiative is not just a milestone for XLCC and Ayrshire College but also a significant boost to the Ayrshire economy, with the company promising to bolster the local workforce with 900 skilled employees.
Stuart Millar, head of apprenticeships and work-based learning at Ayrshire College said: “XLCC’s Modern Apprenticeship is a unique and innovative solution designed to support the company achieve their enormous growth potential in transmission of renewable energy.
“This is a huge opportunity for Ayrshire’s young people, and we are delighted to support their apprenticeship programme.”
For more information about modern apprenticeships, visit Ayrshire College’s website at ayrshire.ac.uk/business-and-training.