JMS lead the way with engineering apprenticeship programme

JMS are renowned for snapping up the best graduates and established professionals, however, they have also got their eye on nurturing talent at an earlier age. In fact, two of their rising stars joined through JMS’ engineering apprenticeship programme.

As JMS Midland’s manager, Andy Kenyon says: “At this time of year, a lot of young people are opening their exam results and seeing if they have got the grades for university. However, the reality is that higher education isn’t for everyone.  And some young people simply do not fancy three more years of classes.

At JMS, we have always had a progressive approach to developing new talent, and our formal apprenticeship programme is designed for those who may not have the appetite for university, and want to learn as they go. In fact, one of our apprentices started here when she was only 14, and she’s actually in the process of completing a degree as part of her apprenticeship.”

Engineering success from a young age, Megan began working with JMS before she had even completed her GCSE’s, thanks to her school’s ‘work ready’ policy, which meant students did one day a week of work experience. By the time she was nearing the end of her A levels and trying to decide between further education and full-time work, JMS offered her an apprenticeship. “My CAD experience from school gave me a great advantage,” she says. “In no time at all I had progressed to Auto CAD. The JMS team could not have been more supportive. I was introduced to all areas of structural design, and they gave me a thorough grounding in every part of the business.”

Does she regret not going to university? “I’m relieved I didn’t go down the further education route, because the work experience I have had at JMS has taught me more than I could ever have learned on a course. And as it happens, I’ve still got the best of both worlds, because as I’ve progressed in my apprenticeship, I’ve been given the opportunity to complete a degree in civil engineering. I feel very lucky, because in this day and age, not many employers are willing to support their employees like JMS have done for me.”

And Megan isn’t is not alone, because JMS have several apprentices learning the ropes throughout their nationwide operation. Harrison McGibbon, who started his apprenticeship in September last year, says: “My colleagues at JMS have been so supportive, and it feels like I learn something new every day. And thanks to the support of my employer, I’m able to study for a HND in civil engineering through day release. And I get to do it all whilst earning a salary and without student debt.”

JMS are leading the way forward

JMS may be playing a large role in improving the infrastructure of the towns and cities we live in, but they are also building viable and rewarding career paths for people. As Group Managing Director, Daniel Staines says: “Our most important asset is our staff. So when we find the right person, we’re not afraid to invest in them, develop their skills, and guide them towards achieving their best. As far as we’re concerned, that’s a win-win for everyone.”

Visit the JMS careers page for more information.