T

he theme for this year’s National Apprenticeship Week in 2022 is “Build the Future”. As any built environment business that has worked with apprenticeships will know, the slogan is an apt one.  

Many of us have witnessed first hand the positive impact apprentices have on the way we work – in adding value, fresh ideas and diverse thought. As well as providing our businesses with access to a vital untapped pool of talented individuals, they bring new energy and enthusiasm to teams across our businesses. 

The foundation of all of this in our sector is the Technical Apprenticeship Consortium (TAC) and the work done to support the trailblazer groups in designing and delivering apprenticeship standards for the benefit of the entire industry.  

We are dedicated to ensuring that our industry can continue to develop and grow through the hiring of apprentices and creation of relevant and robust standards by bringing together businesses, providers and professional institutions. This constructive relationship has never been stronger, and continues to nurture standards that are popular for both employers and people starting out in our sector. 

I’d urge all businesses to make the most of the campaign and celebrate not only the amazing people you work with, but how apprentices have changed your businesses for the better too. Gareth Drought, chair TAC

In an ever-changing employment market, and sector which is often driven by technological advances, we must not rest on our laurels. TAC is committed to maintaining the relevance of the apprenticeship standards that our businesses all use and has a continuous stream of activity to improve our existing offering – vital to ensuring people learn the right skills and employers get the most out of apprentices. 

From my own personal experiences at Tony Gee, I have seen apprenticeships strengthen our business in both technical output and innovation, while our company has also developed a true culture of mentorship and development. I can now confidently claim that we offer an inclusive space to develop a career away alongside the more traditional routes which we also run in tandem.  

So, with another National Apprentice Week upon us, I’d urge all businesses to make the most of the campaign and celebrate not only the amazing people you work with, but how apprentices have changed your businesses for the better too. 

Interested in finding out more about how apprenticeships can help your business? Browse our TAC page. Gareth Drought is chair of the Technician Apprenticeship Consortium and HR Director at Tony Gee.