The Future of Manufacturing is in Apprenticeships
As manufacturers have struggled to retain skilled workers, the industry continues to find young and enthusiastic replacements who are taking up the mantle. When the Richard Review of Apprenticeships was released in 2012, it promised to beckon in a new era for apprentices and provide a route which would allow them to pursue similar success to others undertaking degrees. The programme recommended re-defining the apprenticeship in line with considerations for the outcome and future job prospects for the apprentice. The work undertaken would be recognised by industry standards, rather than in the past where some low level apprenticeships were simply designed to pay below minimum wage for menial tasks.
Alongside apprenticeship schemes set up by the government, many manufacturers across the country run their own equivalents which offer the prospect of full time employment for the apprentice at the end. Established manufacturers, Rolls Royce and Siemens have multiple schemes available which encourage talented people to apply and the scheme is designed to integrate them into the company once the apprenticeship is complete. With such an approach, skilled individuals feel valued by the company and such investment in them is more likely to convince them to stay with the organisation in the considerable future.
Such investment is possible due to government support, which is one of the ways where they are attempting to give a helping hand to enable British manufacturers to develop and nurture. By 2020, they have pledged to open three million new apprenticeship opportunities, paving the way for more talented workers to move into the manufacturing industry. A major advantage as a manufacturer when it comes to attracting top potential apprentices, is the value available as part of the programme. Where courses in retail and others provide a watered down experience, opting for an apprenticeship in manufacturing offers the chance to acquire tangible skills and to be truly integrated into the company.
The investment as a whole is encouraging for British manufacturing as it provides a sustainable route for a steady influx of talented individuals who can become an integral part of the manufacturer. While issues such as low pay are an issue, it is even more important for the manufacturer to provide enough incentives in the future to retain the prospect long term. This part is important to encourage staff to continue their development there which is key to helping the manufacturer itself grow in the future.
