Apprentices get a head start

JTL apprentices recently collected tool kits which have been donated by Super Rod and Klein Tools from branches of City Electrical Factors (CEF).

This is the first mass distribution of Klein tool kits to new apprentices in England and Wales. It follows the launch of the programme in June 2015 when Klein Tools committed to a five-year investment, worth over £1m to support electrical apprentices who are trained by the JTL network.

Malcolm Duncan from Super Rod said: “Apprentices are the key to our future prosperity as a nation so equipping them with a combination of the best training with the best tools, can only be good for the future of our industry. 4 February was the first day of that journey as we have agreed a five-year programme with JTL and hope to equip 10,000 new apprentices over that period.”

Over 1500 kits were distributed at 76 CEF branches during a four-hour period. Malcolm continued: “This has been made possible by partnering with CEF the exclusive distributor for Klein Tools in the UK. CEF has nearly 400 locations across the UK, so no apprentice is ever very far away from a CEF branch.”

JTL continues to deliver training available to electrical apprentices in the UK and this opportunity to match that quality of training with the best tools available on the market, will have a positive effect on the industry.

Jon Graham, chief executive of JTL commented on the programme: “These tools and instructional materials give our students a great foundation at the start of their careers. We teach the importance of working with safe, quality-proven tools and this donation puts apprentices on track toward long and successful careers as electricians.” It is also great news for the electrical industry and shows a commitment by the companies involved to continue to support the development of young people in the industry.

Steve Pope, general manager for CEF, said: “I have worked in this industry for over 30 years and I have never seen a programme like this in terms of scale or commitment. When CEF was asked to assist with the distribution of the Klein tool kits, we were more than happy to get involved. With nearly 400 locations and backed up with an industry website, CEF can offer an excellent introduction to the role electrical wholesalers play in the supply chain.”