Member Article

Army leavers benefitting from Process Industry apprenticeships

Four process industry employers have joined forces to create a new adult apprenticeship scheme, aimed at former members of the Armed Forces.

SABIC UK Petrochemicals, Lotte Chemical UK Ltd, ConocoPhillips and Lucite International have together launched the 21-month programme, which will sponsor trainees and provide work placements on-site to help them into the process industry.

Stephen Trillo HR/OD & IT Manager for Lotte Chemical UK Ltd, said: “We are looking at many different and innovative ways of bringing new talent into our business to help address the skills gap that the process industry is facing.

“This new initiative will build upon our existing programmes and provide highly skilled Technicians to help us remain at the forefront of our business”

Eight trainees from the North East have been chosen to get involved in the scheme, and will now work towards the Process 0610 qualification and a NVQ Level 3 qualification.

The trainees, aged between 25 and 42, come from a range of backgrounds including the Royal Engineers, Royal Signals and the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.

The Career Transition Partnership, which provides resettlement services to Army leaders, facilitated the transition into the workplace. Many of the skills they acquire during service are sector specific and can help them into good long term careers.

Chris Lamb, Regional Employment and Training Manager, said: “This programme is an excellent example of how employers can support the transition of armed forces personnel by delivering new skills and qualifications.

“We work closely with employers and organizations like TTE to create opportunities in a cross-section of industries and sectors that will aid the transition.”

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