Local MP Mark Pawsey has visited three of CEMEX’s apprentices based in Rugby - Luke Low, Jamie Collins and Joshua Sargent - to find out about the opportunities an apprenticeship offers.
Mark’s visit came during National Apprenticeship Week 2018 which celebrates the great benefits to both employers and young people that apprenticeships offer. Since 2010 there have been over 6,700 apprenticeship starts in Rugby with over 1,000 new apprentices starting in 2016-17.
Apprenticeships are at the heart of the Government’s strategy to expand opportunity and develop the skilled workforce the country needs. This includes working with industry to deliver an ambitious target of 3 million new apprenticeship starts by 2020.
During Mark’s visit to CEMEX, he was joined by Barrie Flitton, CEMEX’s Cement Logistics Operations Manager and David Hart, UK Logistics Director for CEMEX, to speak to three of the firm’s apprentices who are nearing the end of their 12 month training programme at their Rugby site. Luke, Jamie and Joshua all spoke about how they had worked closely with experienced drivers to secure their HGV license and learn the tricks of the trade, including unloading the full cement tankers at their destination.
Speaking after meeting the apprentices, Mark said:
“It was very clear from meeting the longstanding members of staff at CEMEX helping to deliver apprenticeship training how enthusiastic they are about offering a new generation the skills the experience that they have built up over the years. However, as was highlighted by Barrie Flitton, young apprentices often bring a new set of skills with them, including a familiarity with modern technology which CEMEX are increasingly incorporating into their vehicles.”
Mark continued:
“One of the aspects of CEMEX’s driver training I was most interested to learn about was their emphasis on awareness of vulnerable road users such as pedestrians or cyclists. I met CEMEX in Westminster when they unveiled one of their new generation of HGVs, which incorporates a number of different safety features to help their drivers.”
Mark concluded:
“Apprenticeship programmes are a great way of offering a structured course with a clear career path. I understand that since CEMEX began running an apprenticeship programme, they have taken on over 30 apprentices and the scheme has expanded every year. It was clear from speaking to Joshua, Luke and Jamie that they have learned a great deal from their time doing an apprenticeship and I wish them the best of luck with their future career.”
Carl Milton, CEMEX Regional Logistics Manager, who manages the apprentice programme stated:
“Our scheme is supported by an inhouse team of very dedicated professionals and it’s very rewarding to see local young talented people grow and develop into the vital skilled workforce for the future. We are very proud of our apprentices and their success in a rewarding career in the company.”