Member Article

North East trainees manufacture success

Ten rising stars from one of the UK’s most disadvantaged areas have fought off competition from 100 other young people to win trainee positions in a range of North East manufacturers.

The 10 successful candidates, who underwent a rigorous selection process including a half-day assessment programme and panel interviews, have taken up trainee roles with East Durham companies.

Before winning his place as a manufacturing trainee with NSK Bearings Europe in Peterlee, 19-year-old Phil Robinson had been made redundant from a demolition firm due to the economic downturn.

Meanwhile, 18-year-old Becky Watson was expected to pursue a career in childcare before taking up her position as a trainee at nearby Seaward Electronics.

NSK Bearings Europe HR manager Steve Metcalfe said: “The challenge for all organisations and young people is about getting the right people in the right jobs.

“We think the success of this scheme speaks for itself - the EDEF trainees that have taken part in the programme are well placed to be offered employment at the end of this month.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .