Member Article

Apprentice Joe is driving forward at Nicholson’s Transport

A YOUNG apprentice is on the road to success after impressing at a Teesside transport firm.

Teenager Joe Nicholson was offered a route into work-based training after joining Billingham-based Nicholson’s Transport last summer.

The 17-year-old is on course to complete a BTEC in Business Administration via day release at Darlington College and is already looking ahead to a career in management.

Joe said: “When I left school after my GCSEs, a lot of my friends were going straight onto to College and eventually on to university. But I knew I wanted to go straight into work because I’m much more of a practical person.

“An apprenticeship is ideal for me because I am picking up a lot of skills and experience and still working towards qualifications. I even have my forklift operator’s licence.”

Nicholson’s Transport is a passionate advocate of apprenticeships and has provided opportunities across the business for young people including drivers, office roles and warehouse operatives.

Its focus on skills and training was recognised last year when the firm was highly commended in the prestigious Culture for Success awards. The award applauded the impact that motivated engaged employees had on customer service and profitability.

Managing Director David Nicholson said: “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, as with many other apprentices we have recruited over the years, is flourishing in his role and if he continues to apply himself with dedication will have a very successful and enjoyable career ahead of him.”

Joe, who is from Sadberge near Darlington, initially worked at Nicholson’s Transport 55,000 sq ft warehouse but has now graduated to the office where he helps manage pallet deliveries across the UK.

The teenager is already looking ahead and hopes to start a business degree at Teesside University with the support of Nicholson’s Transport, once he completes his two year apprenticeship.

He added: “I am really glad I chose an apprenticeship because I know I am benefitting from regular work but not missing out on qualifications.

“This way, I can continue with my education and I hope to go through all the levels right up to a Masters in Business. I have a strong interest in the business side of things and one day I hope to set up my own.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Jonathan Ward .