Finning kick off 2025 apprentice search
Caterpillar dealer launches programme to double the number of apprenticeship engineer positions over next two years
FINNING – the world’s largest dealer of Caterpillar equipment, parts, and services – are playing their part in tackling the engineering skills shortage with the launch of their 2025 apprenticeship programme, which aims to grow the number of new recruits over the next two years.
The company is looking to recruit up to 34 new apprentice engineer roles, with placements available across the equipment dealer’s 11 branches nationwide.
Predictions by the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) suggest that by 2026 – around 20% of the current UK engineering workforce will have retired or will be about to. To ensure a good pipeline of skilled engineers, Finning continue to grow their apprenticeship academy by focusing on improving education prospects, creating an inclusive environment, and embracing technology to engage with and attract younger people to the wider quarrying industry.
Since opening its doors in 2007 the Finning apprenticeship academy has gone from strength to strength. Last year’s cohort consisted of 31 apprentices and boasted a 100% retention rate, more than double the national average of 54%.
Finning aim to attract applicants from all walks of life as the dealer underlines its commitment to supporting the next generation of skilled engineers. The apprenticeship programme consists of a four-year curriculum, where the apprentices will learn all the skills needed to equip them for future roles in the company’s construction and energy divisions.
They will also have the opportunity to experience working in all areas of the business and develop skills for life. Last year, following an inspection by Ofsted, Finning’s Apprenticeship Academy was awarded ‘good’ status.
The launch of this year’s apprenticeship recruitment at the end of January coincides with National Apprenticeship Week (10-16 February) – a national initiative that showcases the positive impact apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses, and the UK economy.
Craig Smallman, engineering academy manager at Finning UK & Ireland, is keen to raise awareness of how apprenticeships can play a key role in the construction industry, by opening doors for individuals to achieve a rewarding career with longevity.
‘The skills gap in engineering and construction industries are well documented,’ he remarked. ‘We’re at a critical point now, with a good proportion of engineers approaching retirement, which is then compounded by the fact that not enough young people consider these industries as career options.
‘It is vital we look to inspire the younger generation to see how rewarding a career in engineering can be both personally and financially. Our apprenticeship programme is part of the solution and helps to open the doors for people from all backgrounds.’
Recent projections will see the academy intake numbers almost double within two years. Currently, there are 85 apprentices at Finning working to complete the programme, which delivers bespoke training in a purpose-built academy equipped with the latest technology.
To ensure apprentices get off to the best start in their careers Finning will offer all apprentices a permanent position with the company upon successful completion of the course. This includes a contribution pension, life insurance policy, health plan, share purchase plan, discount platform, cycle-to-work scheme and wellbeing support.
