21 apprentices join Mitsi scheme

UK: Twenty-one apprentices have joined a new, national ac apprenticeship scheme formed by Mitsubishi Electric and its contractor “partners”.

At two launches in Hatfield and Manchester, the company came together with 13 of its independent contractors to welcome the 21 new apprentices who have joined the industry through the scheme.

The 13 contracting partner companies are: 21 Degrees; Air Master Air Conditioning; Airway Solutions; Bry-Kol Developments; Crowther and Shaw; DOC Building Facilities; Neville Tucker Heating; NDS; Oxford Refrigeration; Servio; Orbital Climate Solutions; Temperature Control; and Watford Refrigeration.

The scheme, first announced in May, is being co-ordinated by Building Engineering Services Training (BEST) with the National Apprenticeship Service (NAS).

“We have been pleased with the results, particularly the support from our partners, as this is only the first year of our new National Apprenticeship Programme”, explained Steve Hayward Technical Services and After Sales Manager.

“Along with our partners, we recognise the importance of developing the engineers of the future to ensure that we can continue to meet market demand as an industry”, he added.

Skills minister Nick Boles said: “Support from leading companies like Mitsubishi Electric and its partners means that it is fast becoming the norm for young people to choose either university or an apprenticeship as a route to a great career.

“I would encourage other companies to follow Mitsubishi Electric’s lead in recognising the value apprentices add to their businesses in helping them to build a skilled workforce. There has never been a better time to become an apprentice – to get in, and go far”.

“We are delighted to work on a national scale with such a significant industry player as Mitsubishi Electric,” commented Steve Leighton, Chief Operations Officer for BEST.  “The response from Mitsubishi Electric’s partners has been superb and these companies recognise the value that a skilled, qualified workforce adds to their business.”