Car parts company to show value of apprentices (From The Northern Echo)

Nifco, near Stockton, urges industry to look at apprentices to plug skills gaps

6:00am Thursday 7th March 2013 in Business News By Steven Hugill

A NORTH-EAST car parts maker is taking part in a national apprenticeship event aimed at plugging skills gaps across the industry.

Nifco, in Eaglescliffe, near Stockton, will travel to London to give a talk on the importance of apprentices to The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

The company, which makes plastic fasteners, grab handles and injection mouldings, is sending Andy Dunn, its engineering manager, and apprentices Tom Waldock and Tom Beagrie to the event to demonstrate the value young workers bring to the industry.

Mr Dunn said: “In 2011, for the first time in several years, we recruited its first apprentices.

“The impact they have had on the business has been significant and we quickly made a commitment to take on more apprentices.

“It is absolutely vital to invest in the skills and development of all of our people.

“We have ambitious growth plans, so ensuring that we have young, hungry and talented individuals as part of our employee make-up is vital.”