Growing Northumberland construction specialist Merit has recruited 18 new apprentices as part of moves to train up the next generation of workers.
The Cramlington company, a former winner of the North East Company of the Year award, constructs more than 75% of its structures at its North East factories before shipping them to their final destinations, a system which dramatically cuts lead times while also lowering costs.
Now the Admiral Business Park firm, which specialises in working on complex buildings for sectors including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, bioscience, battery manufacturing and semiconductor industries, has welcomed the new apprentices at its smart factory as part of its commitment to professional development.
Merit has taken on 10 engineering apprentices through Northumberland College and eight electrical apprentices through Northumberland Skills who deliver on behalf of Northumberland Council. Through its training programme, Merit aims to equip its apprentices with the skills and knowledge their need to excel in their respective fields.
The latest cohort takes the total number of apprentices with the company to 95. The programme was launched in 2013 and provides valuable training and experience but also guarantees job security for individuals upon completion.
HR manager April Twentyman said the firm’s investment in apprenticeships ensures a skilled workforce for the future while also contributing to the growth and success of the sector. Participants take part in day-to-day mentoring while also gaining specialist skills alongside college attendance, and apprentices will have the opportunity to support Merit’s projects includes Berwick’s new £35m Community Hospital, a therapy-led rehabilitation unit on site at Norwich Community Hospital and Woking Community Hospital’s new Community Diagnostic Hub.
Ms Twentyman said: “I am delighted to officially welcome the 18 new apprentices to Merit. Our apprenticeship programme is designed to ensure that each individual receives the necessary training, mentorship and experience so that they feel equipped to start their careers upon completion of their programme. Apprentices are valuable members of our team, and each of them will contribute towards the long-term growth and success of the company.”
Iain Nixon, vice principal for partnership and business solutions at Northumberland College said: “Northumberland College is delighted to be working in partnership with Merit. Merit truly understands the value that apprenticeships can bring to their company and sees them as a great way of developing their future workforce. The new cohort of engineering technician apprentices are now working in an organisation that will support them to gain the essential technical skills they need to embark on a successful career in offsite construction and digitalised manufacturing.”
Alyn Carr, head of curriculum at Northumberland Skills, said: “Apprenticeships are a fantastic way for learners to gain real-world experience while continuing their education. We’re thrilled to see our apprentices take this next step with Merit, a company that shares our commitment to upskilling and nurturing new talent. Together, we’re helping to build a skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of the modern construction industry.”