30 Nov The Fraserburgh 55: Gray & Adams apprenticeship scheme reaches new heights
Earlier this year, Gray & Adams (Fraserburgh) took on a new group of 15 young people as apprentices, with the support of the AEG and Skills Development Scotland.
Gray & Adams Doncaster, Dunfermline and Belfast all run similar apprenticeship schemes, with the largest group of young people being based at Fraserburgh. Anyone taking on a Gray & Adams apprenticeship would choose a discipline from a range of options, including hydraulic, mechanical or refrigeration engineering, joinery, welding, spray painting and coach building.
Each year Fraserburgh has developed and supported around 40 young people through its apprenticeship scheme and continues to invest in the development of apprentices as part of its commitment to the next generation of industry talent. This new group of 15 takes this number to 55 in 2021, as Gray & Adams approaches its 65th year in business.
Gray & Adams has a long-serving, highly skilled team of tradespeople ready to pass on their expertise, some of whom have worked for the business for 40 years or more. With such a longstanding commitment to this scheme throughout the group, apprentices are seen as the future of the business. The company has several former apprentices that have succeeded in working their way up into more senior roles. For example, apprentice welders that are now welding department managers or refrigeration engineers, and assembly operatives that have become assistant line managers. This group of young people can be sure of a range of diverse and interesting opportunities to grow their skillsets and be part of Gray & Adams’ successes in the years to come.
We spoke to three of Fraserburgh’s apprentices to find out a bit more about their experiences in working with us.
Ruben Morrison First Year Refrigeration Apprentice: Refrigeration Shop
Favourite skill so far?
I love working on install jobs – particularly the electrical parts. I’ve learned a lot!
What do you enjoy most about your apprenticeship?
It’s a local business and a good company to work for. I’ve learned so many skills and techniques and I love being so hands on in the job too.
Why is Gray & Adams a good place to work?
In the short time I’ve been here, I’ve learned how to behave in a workplace. I really love the electrical work and the team look after us so well. They’re friendly and it’s a great environment to work in.
If another young person was considering an apprenticeship with Gray & Adams, what would you say?
I’d tell them to take it! It’s a great place to work and everyone is so helpful – you learn so much here.
William Smith Second Year Welding and Fabrications Apprentice: Lifting Floors
Favourite skill so far?
Just welding as a whole – I love it!
What do you enjoy most about your apprenticeship?
I really enjoy the mix of hands-on learning and college work. It’s great to learn something new and it’s very different to everything I’ve done before it.
Why is Gray & Adams a good place to work?
It’s reliable and safe, with lots to learn. We’re busy and we get good wages for an apprenticeship too.
If another young person was considering an apprenticeship with Gray & Adams, what would you say?
Go for it – It’s good fun and there’s so much to pick up and learn.
Josh Jamieson Second Year Apprentice Welder
Favourite skill so far?
Probably the welding and fabricating – it’s so interesting.
What do you enjoy most about your apprenticeship?
I love learning new skills all the time. I also think Gray & Adams is a great place to work and the people are brilliant.
Why is Gray & Adams a good place to work?
There’s lots of training on how to use everything and how to set up properly. You’re never on your own and there’s always someone there to help you.
If another young person was considering an apprenticeship with Gray & Adams, what would you say?
Go for it – it’s a brilliant place. I think it really puts you on the right career path and there’s so much to learn and do. I love it here.