You’re hired! Five new apprentices start at housing group
Three school leavers are amongst Incommunities’ latest intake of apprentices starting on the road to careers in construction.
The new recruits include army cadet Shannon Lawler (electrician), Lewis Joseph (plumber) and Kieron Ellis (joiner) who are all 16 and 18 year old apprentice electrician, Elliott Wood.
The fifth starter, Shauna Bramham, has made a big career change moving from the housing group’s Income Team to train as a gas plumber.
Shauna said: "I am really excited about training as an apprentice and moving from an office based job to training to deal with customers plumbing needs is a big change, but I’m keen to learn and apply my new skills to helping people.
"It will seem strange at first going to see customers to offer a plumbing service rather than deal with their rent enquiries!
Each apprentice is assigned mentors from the housing group’s professional ranks to train on building projects and repair work as well as develop their skills at the group’s construction training centre. One day a week they will attend college to work towards NVQ qualifications in their particular trade area.
Geraldine Howley, Incommunities’ Group Chief Executive, said: "It’s great to welcome our latest intake. Apprentices are at the heart of our business with over 40 trainees currently based in our construction, horticulture and estate services.
"Each new trade recruit will learn first-hand what it’s like to be part of our experienced construction team and will benefit from some of the best training anywhere."
Earlier this year, Incommunities was named Employer of the Year by Askham Bryan College (York) for its investment in apprenticeships.