DYW ready to inspire new blood

Developing the Young Workforce ( DYW) is ready to forge a relationship attracting new blood into business development.

The team, based at Prestwick Airport as an integral part of Ayrshire’s Chamber of Commerce and the Confederation of Economic Development Ayrshire ( C. E. D. A) have met for initial talks.

Former MSP Chic Brodie, director of C. E. D. A, said: “For sometime we have been working to attract young people, women and minority groups into the heavy goods vehicle and associated industries where we have a critical shortage of drivers, some 11,000 in Scotland.

“We are making strides slowly in contacting and creating interest with veteran organisations, the homeless and those other areas where people are re- entering society.

“But the key, as in other industries is in attracting the young.

“This is where DYW play a very significant part.

“Not all young people want to go to university and there are some real highly remunerative career and business paths to be cultivated.”

Gillian Longmuir, DYW employer engagement officer, added: “We host events such as DYW Curricular Connections typically once a month and after the school day where teachers, career advisors and college staff are invited into a business to hear more of a company, the business sector and understand the challenges and opportunities of that sector.

“This will cover the types of roles involved, the skills and qualities required and how there can be fruitful engagement between the young and the employers.”