Local Business Investing In Local Talent

Nortek Global HVAC, comprising of local brand AmbiRad and other brands Airbloc, Nordair Niche, Benson, Reznor and Eaton Williams, is one of Europe’s leading developers and manufacturers of heating, ventilation and air-cooling products and has been delivering total heating solutions for over three decades.

Through its skills for the future program, Nortek is committed to helping young people get into work. The Brierley Hill based organisation has been investing in the scheme for the past two years; taking on six apprentices, an intern and two summer placements. The Company is now looking to take on another apprentice within its service department.

Helen Hawkins, European HR Director at Nortek Global HVAC, said “Skills for the Future creates a balance between work and education and is good for the business as well as the young people we support. Students become more commercially aware, as they benefit from a broad experience in a short space of time, and school-leavers are encouraged to consider earning while they learn through an apprenticeship. At the same time, we benefit from the different perspectives the young people bring and a welcome injection of fresh ideas.”

In a highly competitive employment market, Nortek believes work placements and internships help young people to stand out from the crowd. When applying for jobs, the skills they have learnt and their improved knowledge of a business environment are likely to stand them in good stead with prospective employers.

Philip Roberts, a quality, health, safety and environmental apprentice at Nortek has done just that this year as he has made the shortlist for this year’s ICOM Apprentice of the Year Award.

ICOM, the Industrial and Commercial Energy Association is a highly respected trade association representing and promoting the interests of the non-domestic heating sector since 1933. ICOM have shortlisted three apprentices this year.  A spokesperson from ICOM said “The entries for this year’s award have been of a very high standard and the shortlisted nominees have been chosen for their excellence and achievements within the workplace”.

Nortek also has another apprentice within the finance department who is excelling in all areas. Amelia Flavell, age 21 joined in 2014, and has completed her CIMA certificate and operational level within 18 months. She is aiming to be a fully qualified chartered management accountant in the next two to three years at the age of 24; an achievement which the company and Amelia are very proud of.

“To grow our business over the coming years it is essential that we encourage talented young people to become the next generation of employees” comments Helen Hawkins.

The career development opportunities at Nortek are heavily backed up by the great results being achieved. With great business experience combined with a structured learning journey Nortek are ensuring the talented people they are investing in and developing support their ambitious growth plans.

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