A brace of new apprenticeship schemes has begun in a bid to attract the next generation of commercial vehicle technicians.
Three-year programmes have been launched by both Fraikin and MFS with opportunities throughout the UK. Last year’s Freight Transport Association’s (now Logistics UK) Logistics Report warned of staff shortages within repair workshops and the need for developing skilled young engineers if the industry were to remain well serviced.
Fraikin’s Level 3 Heavy Vehicle Apprenticeship is intended to, “expand Fraikin’s engineering capabilities” and will take on new apprentices every two years. The MFS (Marshall Fleet Solutions) scheme will have 15 engineering apprenticeships employed on a full-time basis.
Fraikin group talent and learning director, Ant Perfect, said, “In partnership with colleges across the UK, the classroom element of the course will work in conjunction with more hands-on experience at each apprentice’s local maintenance depot, where they will work with some of the best technicians in the business.”
Apprentices will have the opportunity to join the programme at five of Fraikin’s branches, in Iver, Enfield, Central Midlands, Warrington and Glasgow.
MFS managing director, Mark Howell, added, “Within the commercial vehicle sector, there is a growing need to bring new fresh young talent into the industry. At MFS, we are playing our part with the provision of this approved apprenticeship scheme, which hopefully the marketplace and customers alike will acknowledge.”
