Apprentices take first step on construction career ladder

Two young people have taken their first steps towards a career in construction after securing apprenticeships with energy and regeneration specialist EQUANS in Tamworth.

EQUANS, the new name for ENGIE 's service led activity, was appointed by Tamworth Borough Council in 2020 to provide a £65m planned, responsive repairs and maintenance service to council homes across the borough.

The business now employs seven apprentices in Tamworth and works closely with the borough 's schools and colleges to provide work experience and careers advice.

When they have completed their apprenticeships, the new recruits - who will study at college and university alongside their roles - will be qualified quantity surveyors.

One of the new apprentices is 16-year-old Charlotte Bingham, who said: “I 'm enjoying being part of a great team here in Tamworth, I 've already been given some of my own responsibilities and everyone is approachable and inclusive.

“I 'm looking forward to getting out on site and to learning more about the business and I hope to progress up the career ladder as I develop my skills. ”

Mark Hopkins, operations manager at EQUANS, said: “We 're really pleased to be able to offer these opportunities to embark on new careers in construction. Our apprentices play an important role in the work we do in Tamworth and will learn skills that will last a lifetime.

“It is a pleasure to work with such eager and enthusiastic recruits and I know that, with the support of our teams, they have a great future ahead of them. ”

Councillor Alex Farrell, Tamworth Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Social Housing and Homelessness Prevention, added: “I was so pleased to meet these two new apprentices on their first day and to hear their excitement at securing what was a very sought-after apprenticeship right here in Tamworth.

“Apprenticeships are incredibly important and I would encourage more Tamworth businesses to take up the scheme if they are able. Not only is it a vital learning experience for the apprentice to hone their craft in a career of their choice, but it also has so many benefits to the employer.

“Good luck to these two new apprentices for the future and I commend EQUANS for the work they put in for the community here in Tamworth. ”

Across the borough, EQUANS 's employs around 70 staff - including its eight apprentices - on its repairs and maintenance contract, which oversees work to more than 4,200 council-owned homes.

Pictured (l to r): Mark Hopkins (operations manager at EQUANS), Ayjay Thearia (apprentice), Charlotte Bingham (apprentice), Cllr Alex Farrell (Tamworth Borough Council)