The ETM Group, a Bristol highways maintenance and recycling company, is on the lookout for more apprentices as it looks to continue its rapid rise in the South West, which will include a new £4million recycling plant opening in April.
Since Britain voted to leave the EU, the flow of non-UK nationals working in the country has decreased, leaving many companies struggling to find qualified replacements.
ETM are hoping to address this deficit with more apprentices, and Amy McCormack, Director of ETM Recycling, said that apprentices were key to the company’s long-term growth strategy.
“The challenges in recruitment nationally are well documented,”
said Amy.
"We are looking to take on more apprentices, particularly with the new plant opening, and we are keen to future-proof the business and create a world-class apprenticeship programme.”
ETM currently has two apprentices, one training as a mechanic and the other for an office-based administration role, while four apprentices have successfully graduated into permanent roles within the company.
Dervla started at ETM in 2014 after applying for an apprenticeship with the company and she commented:
“The apprenticeship was great for me as it meant that I could get involved and learn new things instead of being stuck in a classroom. During that time, I was provided with support and encouragement as I progressed further. “Five years later I have moved up within the company whilst being challenged and encouraged to move forward daily. I never thought I would be where I am and have this much job satisfaction at the age of 21 and it all started from an apprenticeship.”
Amy added:
“We have found it tough getting apprentices recently, despite trying tirelessly to get mechanics in, which is a shame as we have so much work, while the ones we do get tend to stay on. “It’s always great to welcome new blood and help train a new generation with on-the-job training as these are the people who will drive the company forward in the future.”
For more information, visit https://recyclingbristol.com/ or telephone 0117 953 3654.