Member Article

Apprenticeships key to driving improvements

A Teesside transport firm has claimed investing in skills and training is key to driving success at any business.

Nicholson’s Transport’s strive for greater efficiency pervades throughout all of its operations, from environmental projects to skills and training.

The Billingham-based firm has recently offered an apprenticeship to 17-year-old Joe Nicholson and has employed 26-year-old Chris Moore, with a view to developing both through the firm via work-based learning.

Managing Director David Nicholson said: “When you look at driving efficiency within a business, you need to examine every process to see how it is affecting performance.

“That is particularly true in how we train and retain our staff to ensure they become a key part of the organisation, performing well and contributing through their own skills and experience.

“I’m a firm believer in the value of apprenticeships. They are an investment for the future and I have seen time and time again, apprentices who have progressed to long and fulfilling careers.”

Joe, who joined the family firm in the summer, will work at Nicholson’s Transport while studying one day a fortnight at Darlington College for a BTEC in business administration.

Chris, from Brotton, has joined the firm after several years working in retail and will be tasked with key customer service roles while continuing his studies.

Joe’s work focuses on production and efficiency projects such as tracking driver routes, fuel consumption and stock levels but has also included forklift truck training and shifts in the firm’s 55,000 sq ft warehouse.

Joe, who lives at Sadberge near Darlington, said: “When I left school, I knew I wanted to go straight into work because I’m much more of a practical person.

“But this way, I can continue with my education and hope to go through all the levels right up to a Masters in Business, to match my dad.

“I really enjoy what I’m doing because I’m learning all the time on the job and getting the qualifications that will help me to progress.”

Nicholson’s Transport’s focus on skills and training was recognised in the summer when the firm was highly commended in the prestigious Culture for Success awards.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Martin Walker .