Three of Lochaber’s major employers have come together in an initiative to offer young people the chance to visit their sites and hear first hand about job opportunities.
ALVANCE British Aluminium, MOWI and BSW Timber organised trips for senior
pupils from Lochaber and Kinlochleven high schools as part of national Careers Week which ran from November 13-17.
Pupils were given a guided tour of the respective works along with an explanation of what happens in each section and how they could become involved.
Each business explained what they did, the markets they work in and how
they achieve their goals through a well-trained, well-paid workforce which was vital
to their existence and continued success.
On the tours, the young people were shown the processes involved in making the finished products and the skills required by particular employees to carry out the
work.
It was also explained that just because they may start in a particular department or job, it doesn’t mean that would be it for life as there were many opportunities for career progression and to study for qualifications which would open up the world of work in other areas.
Tom Uppington, managing director of Alvance met with pupils for a discussion and
question session at the end of the smelter tour to reinforce what they had already
heard and further explain the opportunities on offer.
He also echoed the words of the other businesses in that there were currently more
vacant posts right across Lochaber than people to fill them, with great opportunities
for young people in gaining work experience and progressing through apprenticeships.
ALVANCE is already looking towards its next intake in February.
“Whether you choose one business or another or decide to go elsewhere, if the talent remains within Lochaber in some shape or form we will all reap the benefit,” he added.