A BRIGHOUSE manufacturer has launched a recruitment drive for another six trainees.

Welded mesh manufacturer Siddall and Hilton Products has already recruited and trained seven trainee mesh operators in the last year, and recruited two additional administrative staff in the same timeframe.

But the firm, which is continuing to invest in upskilling local people, has announced that it plans to take on a further six trainee operators during 2022.

The long-established Brighouse-based company, which is the UK’s largest manufacturer of welded steel mesh for high-security fencing, general fencing and industrial mesh panels, last year launched a bespoke training programme to provide a structured induction for new starters as it continues to grow its team.

With ambitious expansion plans, the business is continuing to invest in machinery and in redeveloping its site in the town, as well as developing and rewarding its 60-strong team.

Ian Thurley, chief executive, said: “Given the business’ continued strong growth, we need to make sure that we have the skills we need in-house as we expand. As an historic Brighouse business, we are committed not only to investing in our local workforce, but also to ensuring we share our success with them.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Some of last year’s trainees Richard Haigh and Josh Falkiner with technical trainer Nick Brown at Siddall and Hilton in BrighouseSome of last year’s trainees Richard Haigh and Josh Falkiner with technical trainer Nick Brown at Siddall and Hilton in Brighouse

“Our comprehensive training programme means that someone can join the business with no previous experience and be able to operate one of our complex, specialist welding machines within six months. As well as providing training and job security, we have also reviewed and improved the package we offer. Structured career progression means that operators are rewarded every time they learn to run an additional machine and they can also bolt-on other roles and add other new skills.

“For example, we have recently introduced a programme for Health and Safety Champions with Institution of Occupational Health (IOSH) training to help improve safety on site around-the-clock and increase awareness on the shop floor. In addition, members of the team have the opportunity to undertake Lean manufacturing training, whilst we also support mesh operators who want to take mechanical or electrical courses to improve their skills and qualifications.”

Run by experienced mesh operator and in-house training expert, Nick Brown, the trainee development programme is an eight-week long structured and supported induction process, covering every aspect of loading, setting up, adjusting and operating one of Siddall and Hilton Products’ five welding machines and also includes materials handling and fork truck driver training.

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