"Training is essential for industry sustainability"
Paul Kane of Central Group Services Ltd. tells us how an in-house apprentice training programme has provided the skills the business needs.
Q. Tell us about Central Group Services
A. We’re a medium-sized company specialising in maintenance contracts for both mechanical and electrical services. We cover all sectors – commercial, industrial and domestic – and currently have 75 employees including 10 apprentices.
Q. Why did the company set up its apprentice scheme?
A. We need people with a range of specific skills that match all the needs of the business. It’s important that we have a team with expertise across all electrical, mechanical and gas installation areas. This is what drives our training policy.
Q. How do you deliver the training?
A Although we could have trained people externally, we’ve opted for the in-house route, as this suited the needs of the business. We currently have 10 apprentices who are working towards qualifications such as NVQ level 3. In fact, we think we may now have the largest group of specialist engineers in Northern Ireland.
Q. How has your business benefited from its investment in training?
A. An old chestnut about training is that people will use an employer to get the
skills they need for their career and then leave. We’ve experienced the reverse: the training we provide helps to cement relationships with our employees and creates a real sense of loyalty. One of our electrical apprentices won Apprentice of the Year. This encouraged other trainees to aim high and has been great for the reputation of CGS Ltd. – and indeed for that of our training provider ETT.
Q. How do you see the importance of training within the sector?
A. I think it’s essential for industry sustainability and for the profitability of individual companies. There’s no choice about training – you have to do it if you want to succeed.
Q. And finally – what does a good day at work mean to you?
A A good day is when all the engineers turn in and the wheels of industry keep turning. Of course we all have busy schedules but it’s nice when a customer takes the time to write or ‘phone to thank us for a good job!
