Five new apprentices have joined the manufacturing team at Ransomes Jacobsen, following the re-introduction of Craft and Technical apprenticeships announced back in September 2012.

The new apprentices - Daniel Phelps, Dean Manning, Alex Rae, Joe Tynan and Louis Barrett - were introduced to their mentors on their first day with the company following the obligatory Health & safety induction at the company’s European headquarters on Ransomes Europark in Ipswich.

The new intake will rotate through the welding, fabrication and machining departments with their final placement dependant on areas of highest competency or need at the time they complete the programme. They will also have the opportunity to gain a comprehensive insight into the practical aspects of engineering, supported by a firm academic baseline.

They will be expected to complete a minimum of three to five years training achieving an HNC or equivalent qualification in a mechanical or electrical engineering qualification on completion of the apprenticeship. Day release has been organised through the Colchester Institute.

Stephen Foster, Production Manager, Operations at Ransomes Jacobsen said, “We are delighted to welcome these youngsters into the business and hope that they have a long and worthwhile career with us. As with most Modern Apprenticeships, there will be extensive work-based training with a high level of ‘on-the-job’ tuition, as well as day release at Colchester Institute. This is an excellent opportunity for these guys and they could forge a very successful career if they show the determination to succeed. We are part of the multi-industry US-based company, Textron Inc., which is always searching for new talent, so the possibilities are endless.”

About Textron Inc. Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defence, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. For more information visit: www.textron.com.