Barloworld Handling has taken on 19 apprentices across the UK to support its growth plans.
The company currently employs 52 apprentices throughout the UK and says that without the continued investment in its apprentice scheme the natural cyclical loss of experienced engineers would be difficult to replace.
It reckons that over the next few years, lift truck service providers will lose many of their experienced engineers due to retirement, promotion or career change. “Like many companies, Barloworld has been forced to restructure during the current economic downturn but is committed to maintaining a talented team of professional engineers across the country to ensure high levels of service excellence and customer satisfaction.”
Global human resources director Isadore Payne said: “Our apprentice programme gives us the opportunity to introduce fresh blood into the business and develop both technical and people skills so our engineering force is the best the industry has to offer. Our programme has a proven track record in producing highly motivated skilled engineers. Many of our apprentices, for example, have received recognition at the annual Fork Lift Truck Association awards for excellence.”