Made in Gainsborough welcomes first group of candidates

The industry-led initiative will see those from the local area given an opportunity to start a career in a wide range of engineering fields with two-to-three year programmes open to anyone over the age of 16.

Made in Gainsborough is a collaborative project to help local businesses fill the shortage of skilled engineers in the area to ensure the town’s strong engineering heritage is continued.

The cohort of 20 plus applicants took part in a computerised trade test and an interview, and if successful will be part of the first intake of apprentices. For those that do not meet the criteria, further support and guidance will be available to help them choose their next steps in education and training.

Ken Hayhurst, Group Training Manager, Hexadex Limited representing employers at the event said “I am delighted to be part of the first recruitment day and really happy to see the first 24 potential recruits, eager to follow up the apprenticeship positions that we have advertised in Gainsborough.

“Apprenticeships are key to the future of all our partner companies as we face a growing shortfall in the availability of skilled engineers in the local area, an issue mirrored throughout the UK. 

“This is a unique collaboration between local employers and Lincoln College, with substantial assistance from West Lindsey District Council.  It will be a major milestone to re-establish significant engineering training back into Gainsborough College which will open up jobs for many local people and bring long-term benefit to the community.”

Michele Guest, Director of Education and Training at Gainsborough College said “We have been thrilled with the response to the apprenticeship vacancies for the Made in Gainsborough project. We have welcomed some strong candidates to our first selection day who we can confidently pass on to the next stage of the process when they will meet with their chosen employers.

“Everyone who attended the event showed potential and a good attitude which are some of the key qualities we are looking for. We are still recruiting and would encourage anyone who is interested to apply soon, as it is clear that there will be competition for some vacancies.”

To find out more about our Made in Gainsborough apprenticeships you can email [email protected] or call 030 030 32435. You can apply directly to one of our employer’s apprenticeships and learn more about the organisations here.