Sunderland firm MacDonald Martin Ltd, specialists in all aspects of fire and electrical safety and security systems, sees the injection of new blood into the workforce as the logical next step in its evolution. The apprentices have been recruited to bolster the firm’s administration, electrical engineering, and fire management teams and add further support to the business’ burgeoning client list.
The scale of growth has been such that MacDonald Martin recently extended its Sunderland HQ, adding office space to accommodate its growing team, and is in talks with new clients that could see them open a new base outside of the North East, creating jobs and further apprenticeship opportunities.
Caitlyn Dodds, Ryan Gilchrist, Michael Stubbs and Tom Whiffen all successfully started apprenticeships with the business, after exploring various other employment and educational opportunities. Michael, 19, an apprentice electrical engineer, said he’s already looking forward to his apprenticeship and the doors it will open to new professional experiences and challenges: ‘I haven’t been with MacDonald Martin for long, but I already enjoy working here. It feels like I have a career ahead of me. I’m looking forward to the day when I’m qualified and on the roads with my own van, that would be great!’.
Emma Trafford, 20, decided on the apprenticeship route instead of heading to university. She said: ‘I really didn’t want to leave for university, so the apprenticeship meant I could stay with such a friendly and welcoming team while improving my skills and continue learning at the same time.
‘The apprenticeship route provides real opportunity to work your way up through the business quickly because you’re getting the skills and experience you need, not to mention building relationships with suppliers and clients in the process.’
Andy Trafford, director of MacDonald Martin, said that the apprentices have already proved invaluable, ensuring the business has the next generation of the workforce work-ready and skilled, while also providing a fresh insight into operating a business in the modern day.
Mr Trafford said: ‘We are dedicated to our apprentices beyond their training – we want to keep them with us and help them progress and develop a career here, and grow the business as they grow their skills and knowledge. It doesn’t make sense to us to invest in their skills just to wave them off at the end of their training.’
MacDonald Martin apprentices regularly travel to client properties that they protect across the UK. Andy believes the experience can inspire them and helps them feel part of the team.
For more information about MacDonald Martin Ltd, visit www.macdonald-martin.co.uk
