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The closure of Longbridge in April 2005 handed one company an unexpected way of overcoming an acute lack of industry skills.
Birmingham-based Abex Ltd, a leading provider of materials handling solutions found itself victim of its own success, after increased sales saw the business grow so quickly it was left short of top quality field service engineers.
After months of searching for experienced personnel the company was alerted to the possibility of taking on former MG Rover workers - a move which proved to be a huge success.
Through the MG Task Force Manufacturing Offer, managed by Skills4Auto Abex were advised to contact Job Centre Plus and subsequently took a small stand at the Birmingham Learning and Skills (LSC) – backed Cannon Hill Park job fair.
Abex Managing Director Martin Connop said: “We had a great response from the day and as a result took on three former Rover workers – Adrian Pickerill, Steven Herbert and Graeme Hogg.
The new recruits received comprehensive training involving North Warwickshire & Hinckley followed by a six-month shadowing programme. The employees are all now working individually as Field Service Engineers for the company which provides a hire fleet of 450 trucks to the automotive, aerospace, electrical goods and utilities markets.
Key to the success of the initiative was the involvement of Programme Manager Rita Davey. In addition to overseeing the contractual requirements of the Learning and Skills Council she used her vast experience to coordinate the engagement and training delivery.
Martin added that at the time it was a major investment for Abex but one that was now reaping dividends.
“The MG Rover scenario inadvertently helped solve our skills shortage and will now help us grow as a business. Likewise, the trio of Adrian, Graeme and Stephen now have well paid jobs and a real career path to follow!” he said.
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