Wed 8th February 12:12am
INNOVATIVE ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS IN POOLE
Two Poole based sister companies, part of the Harris Watson Group, specialising in sophisticated electro-mechanical engineering products and services across the globe have endorsed Apprenticeship training as a crucial part of their organisational development and recruitment strategy.
AB Precision (ABP) and Aeronautical & General Instruments Ltd (AGI) based in Fleets Lane, Poole, have a number of specialised business units working all round the world to deliver expertise in special purpose automation, postal mechanisation, explosive ordnance disposal, specialist naval and military products, product design, value engineering and general handling systems.
As one of the founder members of The Bournemouth and Poole College’s Engineering and Manufacturing Forum, ABP work in close partnership with The College and are key players in this valuable industry liaison panel and networking forum.
Tony Mullins, Personnel Manager of both ABP and AGI said, “The Bournemouth and Poole College has supported us across many areas, including apprenticeships, short courses and specialised training. They really understand what our company’s about, and are able to provide appropriate training to suit our requirements. The Engineering Forum is great for finding new things out and associating with like minded people. We hope to continue working with The College as we expand and move our business forward.”
The engineering sector has always traditionally provided excellent career opportunities for young people entering via apprenticeships. AGI currently have several apprentices working with them in partnership with College Apprenticeship Training.
Production Manager of AGI, John Bender is currently employing a second year apprentice, Joe Summers. John commented, “Apprenticeships are a great method of training and nurturing young talent, and I hope Joe will enjoy a successful career working his way up through the company. Part of the success of his training has been the relationship we have with The College and regular meetings with his training co-ordinator. Joe has adapted to the professional work environment really quickly due to that level of support.”
The College Apprenticeship Training team are bracing themselves for another busy year, having recruited a record number of apprentices last year. The new coalition Government sees Apprenticeships as a growth area, and has plans to encourage not just more young people to consider this option, but more employers to offer employment opportunities and apprenticeship placements.
Duncan Newman from The College’s Business Enterprise team and organiser of the Engineering Forum added, “In spite of the current economic climate, Dorset has some significant businesses and industries that are thriving. We are delighted to work together with these companies to help them with their training and recruitment strategies. It remains vital that employers work with us to keep training standards at the highest possible level.”
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