Kenrick is doing its bit to address the continuing skills shortage and inspire more people into the industry. The West Bromwich-based hardware supplier has already supported the training and development of three youngsters, with one recently celebrating completing the first year of his apprenticeship with Kenrick.
Alex Chester combines theoretical learning for his Level 3 Engineering Technician Mechatronics Pathway course with practical training at Kenrick. Working closely alongside Kenrick’s maintenance manager Barry Faulkner, the 25-year old is hoping to become a maintenance engineer when he completes his three and a half year apprenticeship at the Lean Engineering and Manufacturing Academy (LEMA) in Dudley.
Alex says: “I’m delighted to have completed the first year of my apprenticeship at Kenrick. It’s been a great learning experience for me and I’ve had the opportunity to develop lots of new skills, from carrying out machine and facilities repairs to electrical and lighting work and day to day maintenance. I’m really enjoying the challenge of finding and fixing issues and learning along the way.”
Andy White, operations manager at Kenrick, added: “The skills shortage is still a pressing industry issue, particularly in the current climate where many skilled European migrants have returned to their home countries during the pandemic. Like many businesses, Kenrick has a very experienced workforce, but we want to do what we can to encourage youngsters into an industry that can give them good long-term prospects.
“The best way to develop is to shadow and learn from someone who is highly skilled and willing to share their knowledge and this is exactly what Alex has been doing with us. We see great potential in Alex and we’re very pleased to help him establish a worthwhile career at Kenrick, learning those all-important engineering and maintenance skills. We’re proud to be bridging the gap in the skills shortage and attracting the next generation of people, like Alex, to enter the sector.”
Kenrick is a progressive company and is always on the lookout for capable people to join its team. Find out more by emailing sales@kenricks.co.uk.
Kenrick is a leading supplier of hardware solutions for PVCu, aluminium and timber window and door systems. The company has a proud heritage spanning more than 200 years, having been established by Archibald Kenrick who manufactured buckles and livery fittings. Kenrick’s range of top-quality products includes the market leading Excalibur multi-point locking system, the four-point Centurion system and the Easifit and Espagnolette locking systems.
