We are delighted to introduce specialist engineering business SST Technology as a sponsor of the Oxfordshire Apprenticeship Awards 2021. Tracy Dewhirst, Group Marketing at SST Technology explains why Apprenticeships are so important to the firm and why they are once again sponsoring the Oxfordshire Apprenticeship Awards.

Why are you supporting the Oxfordshire Apprenticeship Awards?

We're really pleased to be involved in an initiative that celebrates the success of Apprenticeships across Oxfordshire. As an employer of some great Apprentices it's something that is very close to our hearts.

Apprenticeships offer amazing opportunities for young people to experience industry and gain key skills while at the same time furthering their academic studies and qualifications. They are key to growing a talented pool of employees for the next generation.

As an employer we truly understand the positive impact Apprenticeships can have on the economy, to us as a business and of course to the Apprentice themselves. 

Tell us about your organisation’s experience of Apprenticeships

We have a long-standing Apprentice programme within our group and take great pride in watching our talented Apprentices grow and develop.

Historically our Apprenticeships have been focussed on engineering trades but last year we had an opportunity to very successfully extend this to finance and hope to be able to do the same with other support functions across the Group.

We are also very proud that we have been able to support a number of our Apprentices to go on to higher apprenticeships which will enable them to progress professionally as well as academically.

What would you say to anyone thinking about entering or nominating? 

Make sure you do! Our first Apprentice Cain was Highly Commended in the Advanced Apprentice of the Year Award in 2017, which was a fantastic experience for Cain (and us!) and for him get the recognition he deserves for his hard work and the difference he has made to our business.

Don’t miss this opportunity to put your star Apprentice and your business in the spotlight!

Join the conversation

Join us for Oxfordshire Apprenticeships Hour (#OAHour) on Twitter @OxonApprentice from 1pm every Thursday for latest on the Awards and join in the conversation using the hashtag #OAAwards2021.