At Marshall Skills Academy, September 4th, 2023, was a day of immense pride and celebration as we warmly welcomed our biggest-ever cohort of apprentices. In a remarkable leap forward, we have more than doubled our intake from the previous year, a testament to our unwavering commitment to addressing the ever-growing skills shortage alongside our valued industry partners.
This year's cohort is a diverse and talented group, consisting of technical and business apprentices from our esteemed partner organisations: Bombardier, Aircraft Restoration Company, Titan Airways, Gama Aviation, Stansted Aerospace, as well as our very own Marshall Land Systems and Aerospace businesses. Their arrival marks a pivotal moment in their careers and a significant stride forward for Marshall Skills Academy.
During their intensive induction week, our apprentices participated in a variety of activities and sessions thoughtfully crafted to foster connections. They not only got to know each other but also delved into understanding their employers, new systems and processes, behavioural expectations, apprentice support, and wellbeing. They were also introduced to a vibrant, dynamic environment that embodies the spirit of Marshall, led by our inspiring CEO, Kathy Jenkins.
Under the leadership of Marshall Skills Academy’s General Manager, Dan Edwards, our apprentices will embark on a journey that encompasses Marshall's industry-leading apprenticeship programmes, spanning the engineering and aviation sectors. These programs emphasise practical skills, hands-on experience, and invaluable mentorship from industry experts.
One of our business administration apprentices, Duncan Crespin, shared his excitement: "I am thrilled to be starting my career with such a reputable company, where I can gain hands-on experience while learning."
The highlight of the week was the incredible sense of camaraderie that blossomed among our apprentices. Through team-building exercises and interaction with peers from all six participating organisations, they forged connections that will not only enhance their learning journey but also provide a robust support network as they step into their careers.
As these budding talents in the aerospace and defence industries progress in their training, their boundless enthusiasm is palpable. Combined with the unwavering commitment from the Marshall Skills Academy team to their growth and development, we are poised for a future filled with promise and innovation.
Isabel Garner, a Marshall Land Systems Assembly & Installation Fitter Apprentice, shared her enthusiasm, saying, "I am really looking forward to learning all the skills needed to excel in this industry. I have always wanted to work in engineering."
This successful induction week marks the beginning of an exciting journey for our apprentices. With the Marshall Skills Academy's investment in their growth and their dedication to the industry, the sky is not the limit; it is just the beginning of what they can achieve. We eagerly anticipate the remarkable contributions they will make in the years to come as they shape the future of flight and multifaceted engineering solutions.