National Apprenticeship Week 2025:
Nurturing Future Engineers
As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2025 in the UK, it’s an opportune moment to highlight the invaluable role of apprenticeships in fostering careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Apprenticeships are pivotal in providing on-the-job training alongside academic instruction, creating a pathway for school leavers to gain practical experience and vital skills necessary for thriving in STEM professions.
Apprenticeship programs offer a dual benefit: apprentices earn while they learn, gaining first-hand industry experience while pursuing their studies. This combination not only equips them with the technical skills required for their chosen careers but also imparts essential soft skills, such as teamwork, problem-solving, and communication.
VA Technology is proud to support apprenticeship schemes that are designed to develop the next generation of skilled workers. Our collaboration with In-Comm Training in Telford has seen the appointment of Level 3 & HNC Level 4 Apprentices, who are gaining hands-on experience in various areas including fitting, turning, milling, welding, electrical, CNC, CAD, and fluid power. This partnership underscores our commitment to nurturing talent and promoting careers in engineering.
Meet Joshua Bradshaw: Engineering Apprentice at VA Technology
Joshua began his apprenticeship with VA Technology in September 2024. “In the world of STEM, knowledge and hands-on experience are equally important. Apprenticeships offer a gateway into the industry, working with experienced professionals to learn the theory and utilise it in your practical tasks. I’ve come a long way in the short time since joining VA Technology and In-Comm. Each day provides new challenges and opportunities to push myself”, said Joshua. “I find the time to carry out my own personal studies to further my development. As an In-Comm apprenticeship ambassador, I encourage the next generation to unlock their potential. The right apprenticeship can provide you with a valuable future in an exciting field. Be focused, determined and rise to the challenge… the rewards are worth it all.”
While studying and completing practical assessments at In-Comm Training, Joshua was appointed as an apprenticeship ambassador. “In-Comm apprenticeship ambassadors play a crucial role in promoting the benefits of apprenticeships,” said Jayne Guest, Recruitment Manager at In-Comm Training. “They collaborate closely with our recruitment team and STEM tutor, assisting with school engagement programs. These programs include taster days, where students experience engineering activities first-hand, and school visits, where ambassadors share their journey and insights into apprenticeships and engineering careers while balancing their studies and work commitments.”
Join Us at the In-Comm Training Academy’s Open Day
We invite you to join us at the In-Comm Training Open Day on Saturday 22nd February 2025, from 10am to 2pm. This event is an excellent opportunity for aspiring engineers to explore the prospects of an engineering apprenticeship. You’ll have the chance to meet our team and learn about their experiences and career paths. Click here to register.
About VA Technology
VA Technology specialises in providing complete shellroom systems and equipment, along with total foundry automation systems. Our extensive experience spans the design, manufacture, installation, and servicing of shell manufacturing equipment within the investment casting industry.
