National Apprenticeship Week 2025 10-16 February

During National Apprenticeship Week, we at Tornado Wire take the opportunity to reflect on the immense value apprentices bring to our company. Here are some key reasons why we hold apprenticeships in such high regard:

Talent Development: Apprenticeships are a crucial pathway for Tornado Wire to bring new talent into the business. By training apprentices, we can nurture and develop skilled workers who are well-versed in the company’s specific processes and standards.

Employee Growth: Tornado Wire invests heavily in its people, recognising that the success of the organisation begins and ends with its workforce. Apprenticeships provide opportunities for individuals to grow and advance within the company, fostering a dedicated and skilled workforce.

Commitment to Quality: Tornado Wire’s commitment to quality is supported by well-trained, dedicated employees. Apprenticeships ensure that new employees are thoroughly trained and capable of maintaining the high standards expected by the company.

Tornado Wire is deeply committed to nurturing talent through its apprenticeship scheme.

We currently have 5 apprentices at our Millom site, engaged in various disciplines such as operations, mechanical, and electrical, and they are at different stages of their apprenticeship (Year 1, Year 2, Year 3).

The apprenticeships generally last for 42 months (3.5 years), depending on the discipline and the age at which the apprentice starts.

Apprenticeships are advertised in local schools, colleges, and on social media. Recruitment and applications typically start as early as February, with the apprenticeship commencing around September.

We make a conscious effort to offer at least one apprenticeship every year.

This structured approach not only helps in developing skilled professionals but also ensures a steady influx of fresh talent into the company.

Dylan Johnston, 18, Apprentice Mechanical Operations Engineering Technician – “I would recommend an apprenticeship at Tornado to anyone that is leaving school as you get to earn a wage as well as learning a trade. The thing that I believe sets Tornado’s apprenticeship above others is that you get to learn multiple trades. For example, I am in a mechanical trade but I also get to learn other trades such as fabrication. Another good thing about Tornado is it’s a friendly work environment.”

Hayden Jackson - “My manufacturing operator apprenticeship began 5 months ago and I really enjoy running the 20-line machine, because there is always something to do and it is fast-paced. I have also done most of my training on it. Wire testing is the task that I find the most enjoyable and having a crack with people at brew is great camaraderie. My mentors, Daniel and Mark, are incredibly helpful in explaining tasks and demonstrating how things are done.”