Two new apprentices from Wiltshire College have started with Chippenham based, Fascia Graphics. The apprentices will form part of the company’s GrowthAccelerator programme, which aims to double the size of the manufacturer of graphic overlays and membrane keypads.
Fascia has partnered with Wiltshire Enterprise, the business training division of Wiltshire College which incorporates Avon Vale Training, on the new apprenticeship programme. Fascia’s two new apprentices, who are both in production support roles, will be given the opportunity to gain a working knowledge of their role in the production of membrane keyboards, graphic overlays and labels, whilst also gaining a nationally recognised qualification.
Kieran Banham has started as a trainee production engineer, where he will learn all the technical aspects of the products, along with quoting, loading orders, scheduling and purchasing. Star Hackett has started as a trainee graphic artist to learn to design artworks for all of Fascia’s products ready for manufacturing.
Both apprentices will be completing on-site training as well as a college course. Kieran will be completing a Business Administration Apprenticeship Programme, whilst Star will be completing a Design Apprenticeship Programme, both of which will take approximately 12-18 months to complete.
Gary Knowles, operations manager at Fascia Graphics, who has worked closely with the College’s Wiltshire Enterprise team and Avon Vale Training, said: “It’s great to kick off our new apprenticeship scheme with two very enthusiastic apprentices that have the potential to gain a nationally recognised qualification at the same time as carving themselves out a future career path at Fascia Graphics. This apprenticeship programme allows us to nurture young talent and mould them into motivated, skilled and qualified team members, whilst also addressing the skills shortage currently facing the industry.”
Gary continued: “We would like to thank both Wiltshire College and Avon Vale Training for all of their assistance in developing the new scheme.”
David Murley, director of business development for Wiltshire Enterprise said: “Apprenticeships are a proven way of creating a more effective workforce. They harness fresh new talent, and directly address skills gaps within organisations, ensuring that businesses have access to the practical skills and qualifications they need now and for the future.”
Fascia presently serves in excess of 800 customers both domestically and globally. Its reputation has been built largely on its customer service and fast lead times, which ensure efficient delivery of high quality product at competitive prices. The company’s £1m investment has also led to a significant reduction in its carbon footprint.
