Finning expands apprenticeship program, seeks 70% more in 2024 vs 2023

Finning has announced the expansion of its apprenticeship program, aiming to fill up to 44 new apprentice engineer positions, a significant increase from the 26 roles offered last year. 

With a 70% increase in the number of apprentices being taken on, Finning has distributed the roles across its 11 UK branches, with the aim of bolstering the engineering workforce – which has long struggled with a skills gap. 

Finning’s apprenticeship program has thus far proved effective, with a reported 100% pass rate among last year's graduates, with 91% securing permanent positions within Finning. This success rate far exceeds the national average of 53%. 

Open to candidates of all ages, the four-year apprenticeship aims to cultivate fully skilled engineers for Finning's construction and energy sectors. 

Finning currently has 65 apprentices working towards completing their apprenticeship, with the company noting that it provides its specialised training in a state-of-the-art academy equipped with cutting-edge technology. 

Upon completion of Finning’s apprenticeship program, apprentices are guaranteed a permanent position at Finning, with additional prospects for career advancement. The comprehensive apprentice package includes benefits such as a pension contribution, life insurance, health plan, share purchase plan, discounts, a cycle-to-work scheme, and wellbeing support.

Craig Smallman, Apprenticeships Quality Manager at Finning, a former apprentice himself, is keen to raise awareness that the apprenticeship scheme is open to all applicants, including people looking for a career change, or to return to work, as well as school leavers.

He said: “The Finning apprenticeship programme is a fantastic way to get into engineering and, in particular, opens the door for people who are interested in this as a career but do not have maths and physics qualifications.

“There is no prerequisite for skills, we will teach apprentices all that they need to know – all that we ask for is a willingness to learn, and for them to be passionate and motivated about the work they do. It’s a great fit if you are interested in engineering and learning.”