b'Partner News Winter 2021 35CorporateUK Power Networks apprenticeship programmeA UK Power Networks apprenticeship,Charlie Aston, engineering trainee managerAll of this has been made possible through endorsed by E&U Skills, gives peopleat UK Power Networks, said: This is a time ofthe Apprenticeship Levy scheme.the opportunity to follow a trailblazergreat change in the electricity industry and apprenticeship framework and become athe apprentices learn to play a key role inManagers on the structured training learn fully qualified and competent craft person inmaintaining reliable electricity supplies. Thehow to enhance and consistently apply their one of three trades in the electrical industry:future is bright for these new recruits andmanagement skills, using techniques that are cable jointer, overhead lines person andif they perform well, they can look forwardvital for a successful career in management. electrical fitter. to a secure future and excellent working conditions. They will also apply what they learn, to In September, 21 apprentices started newpractical situations within the workplace, careers in the electricity industry with UKOnce they are fully trained, they will keephelping them to influence workplace Power Networks. The new recruits will bepower flowing to our communities, provideproblems more effectively while trained in traditional skills that maintain,new connections, upgrade electricitystudying the course. Alex Sturge, head repair and build electricity networks whichsubstations and carry out essential electricalof communications, engagement and deliver power to 8.3m homes and businessesmaintenance. We refer to them keeping thedevelopment at UK Power Networks, said: across London, the South East and East oflights on, but these trainees will do muchThe programme will initially develop our England to ensure safe and reliable powermore than that as our essential networksmiddle managers through level 3 or level 5 supplies. They will also play a key role in thepower heating, lighting, the internet andCMI qualifications. Once completed at level UKs transition to Net Zero, as the companyElectric Vehicles. 5, managers can work towards becoming a helps to enable low carbon technologiesCertified Chartered Manager.for local communities, including electricLeadership Academytransport and heating. UK Power Networks Leadership AcademyThe energy sector is traditionally excellent supports the personal and professionalat equipping employees with the technical All the trainees will spend three yearsdevelopment of up to 600 line managers.training skills required to do their job. completing the foundation apprenticeship.Middle managers undertake a CharteredOur aspiration is to see that same level of Two of the trainees will join the commercialManagement Institute (CMI) diploma incompetence and consistency achieved in arm of the business, UK Power Networksleadership and management, tailored to theleadership training, by changing and raising Services, working on infrastructure projectsbusiness, taught by external experts andexpectations. This programme perfectly at Stansted Airport and the Ministry ofending with a graduation celebration whenaligns with our vision of being an employer Defence. colleagues complete their qualification. of choice.UK Power Networks apprentices'