05.07.2021, 16:39
Supporting Careers in STEM
The launch of the EJ Academy programme by facilities engineering firm Edwin James Group represents a major new investment to support the development of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers at all levels.
The programme which will operate from a new training hub in Glasgow will feature a classroom and training room, an ideas hub and a number of e-learning stations. The purpose-built training centre will be used as a competency testing area for new client sites and can be set up as a specialist training environment for specific industries to champion service and safety.
The hub will also feature two electrical training booths that are designed to support apprentices’ training and assessment before they sit their final electrical qualifications.
The new facility will be complemented by existing learning facilities in Burton and Inverness and will be supported by virtual training via specialist corporate training provider Sponge.
Edwin James is also expanding its EJ Academy training programme with a number of new courses, including the EngTech qualification and a range of staff wellbeing workshops. New management training will support a pipeline of talent nationwide to support the company’s ambitious growth plans.
Apprentices already form a significant part of the Edwin James workforce, with almost 10 per cent of employees currently being part of the apprenticeship scheme. The scheme is set to grow further with a commitment to move from 10 to 15 per cent of the total workforce over the next two years.
Group CEO, Derek Smith, comments: “Our people are essential to our business’s success and attracting and retaining talent is vital for the future growth of our Group.
“The Academy is critical to our ambition to build a new force in the UK engineering services sector, and the new hub is a milestone for the business. It underpins our commitment to training and development. When combined with the new courses on offer, it will help colleagues at every level learn new skills and competencies that will support their job and career aspirations.”
Peter Bunting, training officer at work-based learning provider JTL, adds: “JTL has worked with the Edwin James Group for a number of years and their commitment to training can be seen across the business.
“The investment in the new EJ Academy and hub will ensure that employees across the business can upskill, reskill and receive the training they need to progress in their careers.”
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