A CITY firm that has become a global exporting success story is dedicated to giving the next generation a chance.

Southco Manufacturing Limited, based in Warndon, has a dynamic history of growth and transformation spanning three centuries.

The firm serves a wide spectrum of industry, including marine, automotive, off-highway and construction, medical equipment, telecommunications and computers.

Southco has a well-established apprenticeship programme with apprentices at both their Worcester and Farnham facilities.

The programme has been designed with the aim of cultivating a pool of specialist engineers to support the existing and future growth of the business for both management and technical pathways.

The aim is to protect the future talent pipeline and counter the skills shortage specifically in manufacturing.

Earlier this year four apprentices supported a key project, working with a major German car manufacturer.

The quality of their work was recognised with a prestigious global internal award.

Southco are also starting to gain wider recognition with apprentice, Philippa Dressler-Pearson, winning two National awards with SEMTA in 2016.

Libby Kennett, HR manager and apprentice programme lead, said: “Our enthusiastic team of apprentices develop as individuals and learn transferable skills to become our business champions of the future.”

Nick Bennett, the firm's engineering manager, added: “Apprenticeships not only offer young people a route into a professional career whilst being paid to learn and develop, but they also enable businesses to grow and innovate by retaining knowledge and skills, yet maintaining a youthful dynamism and passion.”