Just over four years on since Cartwright launched its ground-breaking apprenticeship programme at its manufacturing site in Altrincham which has seen the business recruit up to 40 apprentices year on year, the company is now rolling out its apprenticeship programme to other sectors of the business. The first to join the award-winning scheme is Imogen Levick who is pursuing a career in electrical engineering and will be based at the Cartwright Conversions facility in Doncaster.
Only a few weeks in, Imogen has embraced the challenge and is now looking forward to finalising her Level 2 NVQ, which she had commenced before starting her apprenticeship and now has her sights on further progressing her qualifications. Prior to joining Cartwright Conversions, Imogen had initially studied business at college, but very quickly realised it wasn’t right for her. Many of her school friends were pursuing mechanical or electrical engineering careers, and being more practically and technically-minded herself she realised she too should perhaps look for something else to do. So, when the opportunity for an apprenticeship with Cartwright Conversions arose she grabbed it with both hands. Since that day 18-year-old Imogen has never looked back. Imogen, who lives in Rotherham, is about to complete her Level 2 engineering apprenticeship with Cartwright. She is already gearing up for Level 3 and also plans to move on to Level 4.
“The job I do is excellent,” Imogen said. “Cartwright is such a big company so there is always something different to do, and something new to learn – from repairing to designing. I had been nervous at first as a female coming into an engineering environment. And it was hard until I could get to grips with it and find my way around the company and processes. But from day one everyone here has been very supportive.”
As part of the course Imogen attends GTA – (Doncaster, Rotherham & District Motor Trades Group Training Association Ltd). once a week. Throughout the rest of the working week she is given a task list to complete while at Cartwright – tasks such as repairs and fittings. There are also occasional on-the-job assessments as Imogen completes her day-to-day work which includes fitting LED lights or spotlights, reverse cameras and mood lights in the vehicles.
Imogen said: “The working day goes by very quickly as it is always busy and I’m always learning. I don’t think there is any part of the job so far I haven’t enjoyed.”
Recognised as one of the most advanced apprenticeships in the industry, Cartwright’s award-winning programme is tailored specifically to the company’s requirements. It aims to encourage school and college leavers to develop their work and social skills, build their team work experience and put them on the path to a long and successful engineering career.
Mark Cartwright, Group Managing Director, said: “Although she has only been with us a short while, Imogen has shown real passion and commitment in her role and has come a very long way in that time. We are delighted with the progress she has shown. Like all our apprentices Imogen plays a vital role in this company. The skills and experience they pick up today will help ensure the long-term future of Cartwright in the decades to come.”
