Glenfield Group is helping to train the next generation of air conditioning specialists, after teaming up with Leicester College to take on an apprentice.
Alex Hookway, aged 20 and from Leicester, joined Glenfield Group in September 2015 and is currently gaining hands-on experience while training for an NVQ Diploma in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration.
Apprentice Alex Hookway has joined Glenfield Group
Darren Webb, owner of Glenfield Group, comments: “Alex has been a real asset to the Glenfield team and we are all delighted to have him on board. We’re ensuring he gains well-rounded knowledge on all aspects of installation and maintenance by allowing him to assist on a wide range of jobs, while studying for a recognised qualification. We’re impressed with the progress that Alex has made over the last eighteen months and believe he has a great future ahead of him.
“It can be difficult for us to recruit staff with the relevant training and skills, so we had considered taking on an apprentice for a while. When we received a call from Leicester College about the scheme, we were keen to get on board and explore the opportunity further. It has been one of the best decisions we have made for the company and we are proud to also be helping to train the next generation.”
Chris Spooner, Business Development Manager at Leicester College, explains why it is important for local companies to support apprentices: “It is extremely important for all companies to invest in their future. Apprenticeships allow companies to manage their talent pipeline and focus on their succession planning. This can involve bringing in a new a generation and also allowing existing staff to progress within their chosen vocation. Apprenticeships are a fantastic route to develop a workforce, which leads to increased motivation, retention of staff and, towards the end of a programme, can lead to a 90% return on investment to the company.
“Leicester College works closely with employers to meet their demands and understand the importance of apprenticeships in line with the Government agenda. It’s fantastic to see people from all walks of life progress into a career they love and enjoy and we are privileged to be a part of this journey. We want to give people the chance that many of our staff received during the infancy of their careers.”
For more details on employing an apprentice, please visit leicestercollege.ac.uk.