MP sees how apprenticeships work for Otley engineering firm (From Wharfedale Observer)

MP sees how apprenticeships work for Otley engineering firm

3:31pm Thursday 31st January 2013 in News

An Otley engineering firm’s “fantastic” apprenticeship scheme has been inspected at first hand by the town’s MP.

Greg Mulholland (Lib Dem, Leeds North West) visited Craftsman Tools last week to meet managing director Robert Johnson and talk to some of his youngest employees.

The company, which supplies precision tool holding, work holding and supply chain management services to the engineering sector, employs five apprentices and is looking to take on another two this year.

Mr Mulholland said: “I was delighted to be able to visit Craftsman Tools in their 60th anniversary year, and to see their fantastic apprenticeship scheme.

“It’s really important that, in the current economic climate, local businesses like this continue to invest in the next generation of skilled workers – and it’s our job in Parliament to make it easier for businesses to do so.

“Last year there were more apprenticeships created in the UK than ever before.”

Mr Johnson said: “We’re really proud of having been able to offer people in Otley high-quality employment for the last 60 years, and will continue to train up the next generation of employees.”