PPS are big advocates of apprenticeships. Here we sit down with Matt O’Connor, PPS Managing Director, to discuss how apprenticeships can benefit businesses.
How do apprenticeships help Pennine Pneumatic Services develop a skilled workforce?
At PPS, apprenticeships play a vital role in shaping our future workforce. They enable us to develop skilled professionals who are not only highly trained technically but also aligned with our company’s ethos and values.
Through a combination of structured learning at college or university and hands-on experience, our apprentices gain a detailed understanding of both theoretical and practical elements of the job. This approach ensures they are prepared to handle the real-world challenges of the compressed air industry and deliver a high-quality service to our customers.
We recognise the immense value of offering apprenticeship opportunities to our staff, enabling them to upskill and grow both personally and professionally. Currently, two of our managers are actively participating in apprenticeship programs.
Do apprenticeships help fill skills gaps within the company?
Absolutely. Apprenticeships are one of the most effective ways to address skills shortages within the business. Through their in-house training and learning, apprentices are a huge asset to our company and the broader industry.
As a leader in the compressed air industry, we recognise that we have a responsibility to foster the next generation of industry professionals by creating more opportunities through apprenticeships. It’s important for us to equip individuals with the skills, knowledge and hands-on experience needed to thrive in compressed air, contributing to the long-term sustainability of our industry.
One of our apprentice engineers, who is in his third year, now operates independently with his own van, attending customer sites. Through training and hands-on experience, he has gained the skills and trust needed to deliver our high-quality services on his own. His growth is a valuable asset to the PPS team, enhancing our capacity and strengthening our ability to support our customers effectively.
How do apprenticeships contribute to innovation and new ideas within the company?
One of the great things about apprenticeships is the fresh perspective apprentices bring to the business. Their eagerness to learn, combined with their exposure to the latest training techniques and technologies, often results in new and innovative ideas that can improve the way we work.
At PPS, we actively encourage apprentices to share their thoughts and suggestions. Whether it’s finding more efficient ways to complete tasks or introducing ideas they’ve encountered during their studies, their contributions can have a real and lasting impact on the business.
Our digital marketing degree apprentice recently worked on an SEO project to optimise key webpages and improve Google rankings. As a result, monthly visits to 32 pages increased by 68%, with consistent top-three rankings in organic search results. This hard work and expertise demonstrates the valuable contribution apprentices bring to the PPS team.
What opportunities for career progression do apprenticeships offer?
At PPS, we view apprenticeships as the first step in a long and rewarding career. Majority of our apprentices progress to permanent positions within the company, taking on roles with greater responsibility over time.
Our aim is to provide a clear path for career progression, ensuring that each apprentice has the chance to develop their skills and reach their full potential.
Our staff who are pursuing training later in their careers are finding significant value in their apprenticeships, through enhanced expertise, skills, and professional growth.
How does Pennine Pneumatic Services support apprentices in their professional development?
Supporting our apprentices is a top priority. From day one, they receive hands-on guidance and mentorship from experienced team members. We also ensure they have access to the resources they need, including industry-leading tools and necessary additional training.
We ensure our apprentices have the dedicated time and support they need to focus on their academic studies and achieve their qualifications.
What advice would you give to young people considering an apprenticeship?
To anyone considering an apprenticeship, I would say go for it. Apprenticeships offer a unique opportunity to earn while you learn, combining practical experience with academic qualifications.
Don’t worry if you don’t have all the answers yet – that’s what an apprenticeship is for. With dedication and hard work, an apprenticeship can be the start of an exciting and rewarding career, or a valuable opportunity to upskill and advance yourself professionally.