Construction careers begin for Rotherham apprentices

The new recruits will work alongside experienced teams and mentors on the housing repairs and maintenance service which Equans provides on behalf of Rotherham Borough Council.

Since 2020, Equans has created apprenticeships for 44 local people, providing opportunities to build successful careers in the construction industry and to learn trades and skills to last a lifetime.

On completion of their apprenticeships, the latest new recruits – who will study at local colleges - will be qualified in fields including joinery and electrical engineering.

One of the new apprentices is Callum Fisher, aged 16, from Kimberworth. He said: “I’ve always wanted to be an electrician and got the opportunity to find out more about the job when I did some work experience with Equans.

“I was really happy to be offered this apprenticeship and I’m excited to get started, learn the trade and get my qualifications to build a good future for myself.”

Neil Wright, Head of Operations at Equans, commented: “Our apprentices play an important role in the business and have a positive impact in the communities we work in.

“Leaving a legacy and developing skilled workers in Rotherham is really important to us and to the long-term success of the borough, and I’m excited to see how our latest recruits grow and progress.”

Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, Jobs and the Local Economy, Cllr Robert Taylor said: “Apprenticeships are a fantastic way for organisations such as Equans to recruit enthusiastic employees, training local people who go on to improve our town using the knowledge and experience they have gained.

“It was great to meet the new recruits, who are just a handful of the 500 apprentices we want to see in Rotherham with our partners over the next four years. The opportunities are endless with apprenticeships – they are a perfect way to gain real-life industry experience whilst in paid employment.”

Equans employs around 150 staff on its ten-year contract with Rotherham Council, which provides repairs, maintenance and upgrades to approximately 20,000 council-owned homes.