Driving success through investing in apprenticeships

Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey, today opened a new enhanced learning environment for apprentices who are undertaking professional and technical training with Wrightbus, Ballymena.

During 2008, Wrightbus recruited 70 apprentices under the Department for Employment and Learning’s ApprenticeshipsNI provision, to contribute to the company’s engineering and design work. Wrightbus recently received a boost when it won the contract to deliver 50 environmentally-friendly vehicles to StreetCar Rapid Transport Vehicle in San Diego, California.

This increased output has resulted in Wrightbus developing a workshop for practical training, an IT suite and two classrooms so that its apprentices have state-of-the-art facilities in which to undertake their training.

Speaking at the launch, Sir Reg said: “It is evident that by investing in our employees through the delivery of well structured and tailored training, we can realise a truly skilled workforce that will improve productivity, raise skills standards and improve the quality of customer service. ApprenticeshipsNI has been created to support employers to develop and enhance the skills of their workforce.”

The minister praised Wrightbus for investing in its workforce, and added: “Wrightbus’ commitment to apprenticeships and workforce investment is an example to all. I urge all employers, both large and small, to really make it their business this year to find out more about apprenticeships and how they can help their business grow. Wrightbus has already realised these benefits and have seen apprentices progress through the company ranks to senior management positions.”

The company said the new crop of apprentices will be entering into a vibrant training environment where they will gain first-hand experience within a company that is recognised the world over for its cutting-edge technology and design.

Mark Nodder, Group Managing Director, the Wright Group said: “Despite popular perception, manufacturing is a vital part of the Northern Ireland economy and this year’s unprecedented crop of 70 apprentices shows our commitment to ensuring the future of this vital sector. It is also a reflection of the hard work our staff have put in to ensure that the scheme is successful.

“The apprentice training scheme is a key element of our strategy to maintain high levels of manufacturing competence and quality control, and to provide world-class products and services to customers.”

Anyone interested in applying for the Wrightbus apprenticeship programme should contact the Training Department, The Wright Group, Galgorm, Ballymena, 028 2564 1212, or log on to the Wright Group website or alternatively Seven Towers Training, 56 Henry Street, Ballymena, 028 2564 4003, or log on to Seven Towers website

More information on apprenticeships can be found on the Apprenticeshipsni website or by calling the ApprenticeshipsNI Freephone Helpline on 08000 854573.

Notes to Editors:

1. Media enquiries to the Department for Employment and Learning Press Office on Belfast 028 9025 7872. Out of hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via paper number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.