New apprentices taken on through Highland HERO Scheme

The Northern Engineering and Welding Company (NEWCo) based in Lochaber is benefiting from taking part in The Highland Council’s Highland Employment Recruitment Offer (HERO) scheme and has recently used funding support to appoint two new apprentices.

NEWCo’s purpose built and well-equipped workshop in Fort William is home to a team of skilled technicians whose services are facilitated by an in-house machine shop fitted with the leading state of the art machinery.

They supply a wide range of engineering-based industries, in both the large-scale industrial sector and private sector.

Neil Worsdall, General Manager said: “NEWCo is delighted to be able to employ two new apprentices through the Highland Employment Recruitment Offer (HERO).

“Investing in young people and giving them opportunities in our industry as always been the ethos of the company, so the scheme compliments what we already strive to do at NEWCo.

“The support we have received via the initiative has been great and the feedback from Dylan and Kyle is that they are getting what they need as well. They are showing great promise.

Apprentice Kyle Roberts said: “I enjoy working at NEWCo because it is a great bunch of guys and there are a big variety of jobs where you learn a lot along the way.”

Fellow apprentice Dylan Monk added: “My apprenticeship has benefited me as I have learnt new skills and really enjoyed my time so far.”

Since it was launched in March last year HERO, which is run by the Council’s Employability Team, has directly supported 225 people into employment.

The scheme is funded by The Highland Council and the Scottish Government under the No One Left Behind and Young Person's Guarantee Funding Streams. It helps people of all work ages and with the greatest barriers to employment secure and stay in jobs.

Chair of the Council’s Environment and Infrastructure Committee, Cllr Trish Robertson said: “HERO is having very positive results as more people find their way into employment. I wish Dylan and Kyle all the best for their apprenticeships. They are just two of the young people benefitting from the scheme. If you are a Highland business and are interested to find out more about how you can apply, please get in touch with our employability team.”

For more information visit https://www.highland.gov.uk/hero