JTL, a leading apprenticeship provider in the electrical and plumbing sectors, is set to open its state-of-the-art training centre in Preston this March. This initiative underscores JTL’s dedication to enhancing local employment opportunities and addressing the regional skills gap.
Located in Cable House, just outside Preston city centre, the facility boasts cutting-edge workshops, modern classrooms, and comprehensive exam preparation resources. Initially, the centre will offer four electrical courses and one plumbing course, aiming to train 256 electrical and 64 plumbing apprentices over a four-year cycle, with plans for future expansion.
A notable aspect of the centre’s development is the involvement of current JTL apprentices. In collaboration with Thompson Building Services Engineers (EE Thompson and Son Ltd), these apprentices are gaining hands-on experience by contributing to the centre’s construction. This partnership not only ensures top-tier workmanship but also provides invaluable practical training for the apprentices.
Thompson Building Services Engineers, based in Preston, specialises in MEP installations across various sectors, including education, healthcare, industrial, retail, and commercial. Their services encompass commercial electrical and mechanical installations, M&E installations, planned and reactive maintenance, and environmental solutions.
The company is renowned for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, emphasising straightforward, friendly, and reliable service. Their six-point promise ensures excellence in every project, reflecting their dedication to building lasting relationships with clients.
A cornerstone of Thompson’s philosophy is their support for apprenticeships. By integrating apprentices into significant and innovative projects like the JTL Preston Training Centre, they provide emerging professionals with real-world experience, thereby addressing the skills gap in the mechanical, electrical, and public health (MEP) industry. This approach not only equips apprentices with practical skills but also ensures a steady influx of qualified professionals into the workforce.
The new training centre is poised to make a substantial impact on the local community. By offering high-quality apprenticeship programs, it will empower residents to pursue rewarding careers in the electrical and plumbing trades. The centre’s focus on green skills, such as electric vehicle charging techniques, solar PV installation, and battery storage, aligns with the UK’s transition to a low-carbon economy. This emphasis ensures that apprentices are well-prepared for the evolving demands of the industry.
Chris Claydon, Chief Executive Officer of JTL, remarked, “The launch of our Preston Training Centre is a pivotal moment for JTL and the local community. By investing in state-of-the-art facilities and fostering partnerships with local employers, we aim to provide high-quality apprenticeship training that directly addresses the specific skills needs of the region.” professional-electrician.com
Gary Downes, Delivery Team Manager for JTL Preston, added, “We are thrilled to bring JTL’s renowned training programmes to Preston. Our new centre will not only create job opportunities but also help bridge the skills gap in the local workforce. We work closely with employers to ensure our apprentices receive training that is both relevant and of the highest quality, enabling them to thrive in their careers.”
As the March opening approaches, anticipation builds within the community. The collaboration between JTL and Thompson Building Services Engineers exemplifies a shared commitment to nurturing the next generation of skilled professionals. The Preston Training Centre stands as a testament to the power of partnerships in creating opportunities and fostering growth within the local economy.
