63 Issue 250 - December 2023 / January 2024 email: news@signlink.co.uk “At MacroArt we focus on providing an important platform for anyone with the right attitude and willingness to learn so that they can achieve and become an extremely valuable member of the team,” Garnett explains. “It’s also important to remember that retaining young talent is just as important as training them in the first place. Offering opportunities for development and continued learning are therefore essential and have been key to our growth and it's why other businesses should invest in apprenticeship and training schemes, too. “My experience with apprenticeships over the last 12 years has proved to be extremely rewarding. I have seen so many people from all walks of life, with zero experience in this industry, become extremely talented individuals who are still working in this trade today. That is what these schemes are all about – nurturing young talent and providing them with the bedrock of a career that they can stay in for decades and always feel fulfilled.” And the work does not stop here for MacroArt. The company has big plans for the future of its apprenticeship scheme and is currently onboarding its next group of Level Three Print Technician apprentices to further strengthen its workforce. It is also exploring different avenues besides apprenticeships to further bolster the young talent in the industry. “The roles people go into are so varied,” Garnett says, adding: “From becoming senior artworkers at design agencies to project managers handling large scale projects. And why have they become so successful? Because apprenticeships gave them all the right tools practically and the processes to help them succeed.” The Next Generation Elsewhere, Astley Signs is another company that places great value on apprentices. James Mavi, sales and marketing director at Astley Signs, says the company has introduced 12 apprentices to its team over the past five years. “At Astley, we pride ourselves on providing apprenticeship schemes and developing the next generation of signage professionals,” Mavi says, adding: “We currently have four apprentices across our marketing and finance departments, and we are about to start looking at more apprentices to join the team on the shopfloor, as we have had great success over the past few years with our young talent. “Our CNC apprentice, Reece, for example, started his apprenticeship six years ago and has now progressed to CNC team leader, which shows fantastic progression. We also had two of our sales and marketing apprentices receive awards in their respective categories at Make UK in 2022. ▲ Astley Signs has introduced 12 apprentices to its team over the past five years APPRENTICESHIPS “Astley fully believes it is our responsibility to encourage and support initiatives and career progression within our workforce. Although thought of as the less ‘traditional’ route, apprenticeships offer an alternative for young people to commence their careers. Fostering the development of hands-on skills and industry experience, apprenticeship programmes allow individuals to undergo training, all whilst earning a salary.” Mavi goes on to say that apprenticeships have provided generations with an opportunity to mould a skilled workforce that meets the specific nature of the business, as well as allow apprentices to see career progression. He explains that several team members have completed their apprenticeships and moved into established and valued roles within the company. “Not only is job security increased, but opportunities for advancement are also boosted,” Mavi comments, continuing: “Individuals have more choices in their professional development – one that meets their needs and aspirations while ensuring quality, in-demand skills for employers. “We have seen apprentices build up invaluable skills which are transferrable amongst departments, having had individuals try various areas within the organisation before choosing the role that is their best fit. This is beneficial for both the apprentice and the business, as apprentices can choose where their skills are most suited within the company, maximising efficiency.” With this, Mavi says he has no hesitation in recommending apprenticeship schemes to other sign-makers. He explains that within the manufacturing industry especially, the company has noted a downturn in young people entering the field. As such, Astley believes apprentices, with their hands-on nature and reskilling potential, are one of the most effective solutions to begin bridging this skills gap and accumulating a dynamic workforce. “With manufacturing companies requiring specialised skills that take time to acquire, apprenticeships allow businesses to train workers with the relevant skills that are needed to fill gaps,” Mavi explains. “These programmes provide not only a pipeline of skilled workers but also various financial and social benefits that contribute to a company’s growth and sustainability. Apprenticeship schemes can help reduce turnover rates, as apprentices who receive training and support from their employers are more likely to stay with the company. “Training and development have been instrumental in the overall business strategy of Astley since its inception, and so we are always on the lookout for young, skilled talent.” These are just some examples of the successful apprenticeship programs that are in place across the UK sign industry. Could it be time for your business to consider a similar approach and help produce the next generation of signage talent? Apprenticeship programs are open to anyone over the age of 16 in the UK Factoid
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