Costain Ltd - apprentice employer case study
We spoke to Theresa McKay, Early Careers Manager at Costain, to find out how a business with ambitious growth plans is using apprenticeships to build the talent pipeline it needs and why developing people from within is central to sustaining its workforce for the future.
We asked Theresa...
How have apprenticeships supported workforce development, skills growth, or staff retention within your organisation?
We have a long history of supporting Apprenticeships and graduates within Costain, realising the value and energy that they bring. Apprenticeships in the construction and infrastructure business play a crucial role in the long-term development of the workforce, bringing new skills, energy and challenge to our way of thinking.
What motivated your organisation to offer apprenticeships, and why did you choose the University of Salford as your training provider?
As an organisation, we have ambitious growth plans and recognise that having a pipeline of talent who have “grown” through the business, and understanding what they will bring, will enable us to realise these goals and sustain our workforce for the future.
Being a UK-wide business, we have sites and projects across most of the UK and having specialist training providers like Salford University, who provide expertise, a wide variety of courses and great levels of engagement, gives us the opportunity to focus the skills we need, where we need them and when we need them.
What are the key benefits apprenticeships bring to your organisation?
Apprentices bring us fresh thinking, challenge, and enthusiasm. They are hungry to learn and work very hard to learn the required on-site skills. Apprenticeships help us to build and maintain a talent pipeline for the future. Gives mentorship and development opportunities to our existing workforce, allowing the transfer of skills and providing career guidance to the next generation. Creates a retention structure that demonstrates a clear pathway to development and long-term growth for individuals. Engages with and supports our local communities by providing work opportunities and backing local initiatives.
Based on your experience, would you recommend apprenticeships and the University of Salford to other organisations?
We would thoroughly recommend taking on apprentices. Some organisations may see the need for supervision and extra support as a burden, but we see it as valuable learning opportunities for all parties. Many of our line managers see looking after apprentices as a privilege, helping young people get a step on the ladder to a great career. The benefits to the business are far-reaching and also help to support the communities in which we work.
What advice would you give to organisations considering apprenticeships for the first time?
Get involved, there are many levels of apprenticeship that can support your business, your local communities and the growth of skills across the industry.
