Alstom supports new apprenticeship programme to train the next generation of rail project managers
Alstom supports new apprenticeship programme to train the next generation of rail project managers
Fifteen new apprentices have been welcomed as part of a pioneering programme to address skills shortages within the rail sector. PlanBEE Rail, delivered in collaboration with Alstom and other industry partners, has been specifically designed to recruit and train the next generation of multidisciplinary project managers.
During the two-year programme, the apprentices will be employed by the National Skills Academy for Rail (NSAR) and will spend one day a week studying with Gateshead College – developing their knowledge of the rail industry and project management.
They will undertake four six-month placements working for leading organisations in the rail sector, including Alstom. Through exposure to different employers and projects, the apprentices will develop a wide range of industry knowledge and skills.
“We are proud to be part of the PlanBEE Rail programme, which not only addresses the current skills gap in the rail industry but also invests in the next generation of talent.”
Alstom will welcome its first PlanBEE apprentice in October, who will be based out of the York office on Fulford Road, which delivers major signalling projects across the UK and Ireland.
“We are proud to be part of the PlanBEE Rail programme, which not only addresses the current skills gap in the rail industry but also invests in the next generation of talent,” said Jon Middleton, Apprenticeship Development Manager at Alstom.
He added: “By offering these apprentices diverse, hands-on experiences, we are helping to develop the versatile, skilled professionals needed to drive innovation and sustainability in rail.”
The 15 new apprentices were welcomed to the programme on Monday 16 September with an address in York from Rachael Maskell MP. Over the next two weeks, the apprentices will take part in an induction to learn more about the rail industry, their employer and the host organisations they will be placed with. The apprentices will also undertake introductory health and safety training, go on site visits and get to know each other through social events.
“Rail needs thousands more apprentices over the coming years to help meet skills shortages. NSAR is committed to supporting the industry achieve this,” said Neil Robertson, Chief Executive at NSAR.
He added: “We are looking forward to working with Gateshead College, Network Rail and the supply chain partners over the next two years to deliver a unique and high-quality apprenticeship programme that sets up these 15 young people to succeed in their careers and in rail.”
On completion, students will gain a Higher Apprenticeship in Associate Project Management, providing a pathway to professional accreditation and further study at a wide range of universities.
PlanBEE Rail builds on the national, award-winning PlanBEE programme for the construction industry which has been running successfully in the North East of England for eight years, expanding to Manchester in 2021 and London in 2023.
