Automation specialist speaks out for apprenticeships

The event was organised to convey the benefits of apprenticeships and to dispel the myths associated with the career route. Mark Proctor, managing director of European Automation, helped to raise awareness about apprenticeships by presenting the company’s positive recruitment experiences. European Automation supplies industrial automation components on an international scale to clients from various industry sectors.

The company has recruited a total of seven apprentices so far, and is now looking for another apprentice to work in its warehouse in Fenton. “I had a great time taking part in the apprenticeship awareness workshop,” commented Proctor. “It was exciting to see so many local companies behind the initiative. Apprenticeships are a key part of our recruitment process and have been very lucrative for us so far.

We were particularly keen to share our experiences and encourage other companies to take this route.” “The opportunity European Automation has given me to develop has been invaluable,” commented Liam Spelman, who was recruited as an IT apprentice by European Automation in 2011. “I see my apprenticeship as a practical way of learning and the perfect start to my career,” he concluded. After completing his apprenticeship, Liam Spelman became a full time web developer at European Automation and has recently been involved in the creation of a new CRM system for the company.