Leading public services provider Amey, has launched a lean apprenticeship programme on its Severn Trent Account, to encourage innovation and promote continuous improvement in the services it delivers in the water sector.
The company which works across the utilities industry, has partnered with training provider Lean Education and Development Limited (LEAD) to deliver the 12-month programme, that will challenge employees to think differently and work collaboratively.
The first intake, of ten apprentices, will earn four qualifications including a Level 2 Diploma in Business Improvement Techniques and will result in employees becoming lean practitioners on completion. The programme also forms part of the company’s nationwide drive to achieve 5% of its workforce in “earn and learn” positions within five years.
David McLoughlin managing director for Utilities at Amey said: “As a business it’s really important that we invest in our employees and support them in identifying innovative ways to improve service delivery. By doing so we’re able to demonstrate real value and provide better, safer and more sustainable services for our clients and their customers.”
Marie Smart, new talent manager at Severn Trent said: “We’re a massive supporter of apprenticeships at Severn Trent, having hired over 170 apprentices in the past two years, so it’s great to see these new Level 2 opportunities being offered by Amey. Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to engage new talent and secure the key skills required in our industry for the future.”
Phil Walters, operations director at LEAD said: “We’re delighted to be working with Amey and we are really looking forward to helping the team improve their continuous improvement skills and increasing the value that they add to their Severn Trent customers.”
Following the launch of Amey’s group-wide Apprenticeship Programme in 2010, more than 720 apprentices have joined the company’s ranks.