News

Larne students discover new apprenticeship opportunities

Monday 5 February 2024

Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Week 2024 (5-9 February) kicks off today offering an amazing series of in-person and virtual events - showcasing the benefits of becoming an apprentice.

Featured from L-R: Caterpillar, Mark McDonnell, Maintenance Apprentice at the Caterpillar Larne site; Clement Athanasiou, Director of Apprenticeships, Careers and Vocational Education, Department for Education; Mayor of Mid & East Antrim, Alderman Gerardi

As part of Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Week 2024 (NIAW24), Mid and East Antrim Borough Council have collaborated with several schools and organisations in the Borough to provide a dedicated week of events and promotional activities that will demonstrate how apprenticeships work for individuals, businesses, communities and the wider economy.

In support of the week, Caterpillar in Larne welcomed pupils from local schools to gain insights into the diverse career opportunities available at the company and hear more about their apprenticeship programme.

Caterpillar currently has new apprenticeship opportunities available at both their Larne and Springvale facilities in the areas of mechanical fitter, electrical, paint, quality, engineering, electrical test and maintenance. You can find out more about these exciting opportunities at caterpillar.com/careers.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Gerardine Mulvenna, said: “Mid and East Antrim Borough Council is committed to supporting local businesses, offering a pipeline of talent and employees and providing career pathways to young people across our Borough.

“Through collaboration with local employers and schools, we aim to ensure that our businesses have the support they need to introduce new talent to their workforces and provide ways for our young people to gain the skills and experience needed to build the foundations for their career pathway.

“As the theme for NIAW24 is ‘Release Your Potential’ we hope that by showcasing the opportunities available to our young people locally, we will inspire them and realise their potential.”

Helen Reilly, Caterpillar Larne Facility Manager, said: “We are delighted to welcome local schools to learn more about the company and our apprenticeship programme. A Caterpillar apprenticeship provides a unique opportunity to gain practical, meaningful, on-the-job work experience at a global manufacturer and develop your career.”

For more information on NIAW24 events available please visit our Labour Market Partnership page.