Leicester-based metalwork firm, ADS Laser Cutting, has outlined plans to take on at least three new apprentices in the coming months, with a view to extending this to five. The commitment comes shortly after a former apprentice within the business was promoted to the board 10 years after starting his training.
With an impressive portfolio of global clients, ADS Laser Cutting has enjoyed sustained growth since being established 19 years ago. Its first apprentice, Zeke Keates, joined the business in 2013 and recently assumed the position of Business Support Director.
The most recent additions to the business at apprentice level are Sam Poole and Luke Littlejohns, both of whom joined the fabrication department to complete their Level Three Metal Fabricator qualification.
The business, which is based at the iconic Fox’s Glacier Mint factory, is now looking to expand further with training roles being made available in both the fabrication team, as well as in the administration side of the business.
Commenting on continued growth and investment in young talent, Duncan Keates, joint MD at ADS Laser Cutting, said:
“We knew that investing in apprentices would require our time and commitment and wanted to do this justice. However, with a vision to grow the business, we recognised the value of apprentices in developing our own highly skilled workforce and in addressing any skills gaps in a competitive marketplace.
“The experience over the past decade has been positive. Both productivity and team loyalty have increased, and with ambitious growth targets, apprentices now form an integral part of the ADS team. We’re committed to increasing our investment in apprentices year on year and as a former apprentice myself, I am looking forward to welcoming new trainees into the team over the coming months.”
Luke Littlejohns joined ADS Laser Cutting in February 2021 and was attracted to completing his apprenticeship with the firm given its commitment to ongoing investment in technology and the team. He comments:
“ADS Laser Cutting has grown at an impressive rate and has made significant investments in the most advanced machinery. This, along with its focus on staff development, played a major role in my decision to join the team, knowing that I’d have every opportunity to progress.”
Sam Poole has been with ADS Laser Cutting, also on a level three apprenticeship, since November 2022. He agrees:
“The team at ADS Laser Cutting is dedicated to high quality standards and having now been here over a year, I can see how I pay so much more attention to the little details and being accurate in my work, way beyond how I’ve ever approached anything before. Each day is different, and we’re encouraged each day to achieve a little bit more but with the level of support we’re given, this isn’t a problem.”
