Pitched roof tile manufacturer reaffirms support for apprenticeships

PITCHED roof tile manufacturer Russell Roof Tiles (RRT) is backing National Apprenticeship Week, which aims to highlight the work done by employers and apprentices across the country.

This year’s national theme is Skills for Life. RRT described apprenticeships as a ‘key investment’ for the future of the business.

Three RRT apprentices – Liam Harrison, Shaun Large and Zane Poulton – are studying at South Derbyshire College on the Maintenance Engineering Level 2 course. They are nearing the end of their qualification and have been taken on permanently by the company.

Otto Mathiesen, maintenance at RRT, said, “I’m delighted to have recruited three young talented individuals who are all progressing really well, we’ve seen them learn, develop and grow which makes us incredibly proud.”

Having started his own career as an apprentice, Otto said he would encourage others to think about beginning their career in engineering with an apprenticeship.

He added, “I am pleased to say that our apprentices have developed really well, they are hard-working, ambitious and dedicated. It is has been a pleasure to lend my experience and expertise to them, and offer them guidance throughout their course.

“I’m thrilled to see that they’re ready to take the next step in their career, and stay with us so that we can support the trio to become future engineers at the company.”

Douglas Campbell at the firm’s Lockerbie site also started with RRT on a graduate scheme, and is now maintenance manager. He has been with the company for over 15 years.

Andrew Hayward, MD at Russell Roof Tiles, said, “We are committed to supporting talented, ambitious apprentices and help them to thrive in their careers. It’s important for young people to think about apprenticeships as a way to get hands-on experience in the industry.”