The door and access product company ASSA ABLOY hosted a locksmith apprentice open day at its Portobello site in the West Midlands. The multi-national says it was part of its commitment to the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) apprenticeship scheme and future of the locksmithing industry.
Launched last year by Skills for Security and the MLA with ASSA ABLOY the apprentice scheme is designed to professionalise the sector by developing skills among the next generation of locksmiths. The firm reports that the scheme has already received industry-wide support in its foundation year. ASSA ABLOY hosted ten apprentices from across the UK, all signed up to the Locksmith Level 2 Apprenticeship. The day covered practical skills and an understanding of the market and product development.
Steve Ross from ASSA ABLOY and part of the team who delivered the training day, said: “We based the open day at ASSA ABLOY around the theme of past, present and future, with sessions including market evaluation, factory tours and practical lock assembly.
The second half of the day was focused on the future, that locksmiths need to consider now organisers say to ensure their future growth, Steve Ross added. “We take our responsibility very seriously and must ensure that we make the apprentices as prepared as possible for life in our industry as well as making sure that they understand and appreciate how their skills need to adapt and grow with the changes in the locksmith market.”
Paul Browne, Chief Technology Officer and Business Development Director for ASSA ABLOY UK, said: “A career as a locksmith can offer more than ever before as the industry enters a period of transition and growth. As well as refining core skills integral to professional locksmiths, ASSA ABLOY hopes to help train and promote the new skills needed to capitalise on the rise of electro-mechanical and digital locking products. We hope that the open day at ASSA ABLOY encouraged and enthused the apprentices and helped them see the opportunities this career can hold.”
Attendees all received personalised mementos from the day, including an engraved padlock, glass placard and the lock cases, which they assembled. With positive feedback being reported to both the MLA and Skills for Security, the next apprentice open day hosted by ASSA ABLOY is planned for 2016.
For more about taking on an apprentice or staff training, please Skills for Security at [email protected] or ring 01905 744000.
Visit www.assaabloy.co.uk.
