A MANUFACTURING firm is working with a training provider to nurture its next generation.

Turbo Power Systems is using apprenticeships to help seven staff members move into team leader and managerial roles.

The commitment comes as the business continues to grow international operations across sectors including transport, energy and defence.

The business, based in Gateshead, employs more than 100 people and designs high-speed machines and power solutions for operators such as Bombardier Transportation, Alstom Trains, Wabtec Rail and Daikin.

However, to help some of its engineering and logisticsfocused personnel become more operational and business- minded, it has now partnered with Access Training.

Nicola Johnson, the company’s HR advisor, said: “After significant change within the organisation, in which we made some new staff appointments and promotions, we wanted to support team members as they transitioned from very technical roles.

“When Access Training approached us about the programmes and explained apprenticeships could be used for current staff, not just new starters, we were keen to get involved.

“We felt this kind of training would not only enhance their skills but help keep the company working efficiently, especially in light of a challenging order book.”

Since September 2016, five employees have been undertaking a level two team leader apprenticeship and two have followed the level five higher apprenticeship in management.

The level five apprentices are working towards a Chartered Management Institute diploma in leadership and management, with the level two group developing their skills across planning, allocation of work, team member support, conflict management, problem solving, project management, budget decisions and customer service.

Simon Lowes, a logistics supervisor, is undertaking the level two team leader apprenticeship.

The 26-year-old said: “I have great ambitions to grow within the company and I’m really enjoying the team leader programme.

“I’ve been given more autonomy because of the training and made new introductions to day-to-day operations and structure, to ensure things work more effectively and my team is fully briefed on their role and requirements.”

Sue Tomlinson, trainer at Access Training, visits the apprentices every three to four weeks to assess their progress.

She added: “The team at Turbo Power Systems has really propelled itself into the training. It’s great to see how it is being put into practice.”