The Prince’s Trust and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s Manufacturing Task Force, which are both delivery partners of the Trust, have collaborated on a project to boost the skills of young people hoping to work in manufacturing.
Entitled ‘Get Into Manufacturing’, the programme is currently accepting applications and will enable participants to gain hands-on experience and boost their skills with local manufacturers including Apeer Doors, Garage Door Systems and Moore Concrete.
Job opportunities will also be available upon completion of the programme, which according to Ian Paisley MP, Chairman of The Gallaher Trust, is what the charity’s mission is all about.
Ian explains: “At The Gallaher Trust, we support eligible projects and delivery partners that are committed to creating jobs, developing skills and assisting disadvantaged adults This programme was inspired by the Manufacturing Academy which is currently being funded by the Trust. Two of our current delivery partners have come together to offer this programme and we were delighted to be able to support it.”
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Ian added: “Those who live in smaller towns and rural communities like Ballymena and its surrounding areas, have a lot to gain from participating in programmes like this, including a chance to learn new skills right on their doorstep. In terms of the manufacturing sector, offering local employment opportunities helps the industry to grow and ensures that there is a pool of well qualified staff.”
The new pilot programme should appeal to those aged 18 to 30-years-old who are interested in exploring a career in the manufacturing sector.
Speaking about the programme, Nathan McAuley, Head of Service Delivery at the Prince’s Trust.said: “Through the ‘Get Into Manufacturing’ programme, we hope that participants will be able to learn new skills, develop their confidence and ultimately secure employment with a local company. Getting the chance to gain hands-on experience with guidance from some of Northern Ireland’s best manufacturing companies will be invaluable and will serve participants very well in the future.”
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Graham Whitehurst, Chairman of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s Manufacturing Task Force, claims that this programme is a ‘win-win’ for both manufacturing companies and participants alike. He said: “The ‘Get Into Manufacturing’ programme is advantageous for all parties. Employers will have access to a growing pool of highly skilled employees and participants will improve their skills, confidence and career prospects.”
The Prince’s Trust is hosting a ‘taster day’ on 24th August with the programme due to begin on 31st August. To sign up, email: outreachni@princes-trust.org.uk.
Source: Written from press release.
