Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)
Ryobi Aluminium Casting (UK) Limited, based in Carrickfergus, manufactures aluminium die castings for the European automotive market. With significant growth planned over the next five years, the company recognizes its success depends on dedicated, talented people, and is fully committed to ensuring that it attracts, develops and retains high calibre individuals to meet future demands of the market and its customers.
The company employs over 300 employees in a range of roles, including:
– Production operators – working in the machining, melt, die cast and finish teams
– Technicians – production, quality, maintenance
– Engineers – quality, design, manufacturing/process and projects
– Roles within the departments that support manufacturing and engineering – finance, sales, materials, logistics, human resources and IT.
In September 2013, the company welcomed 9 new entrants to its apprenticeship programme, making a total of 38 employees who are currently completing an apprenticeship at Ryobi. A new apprentice will have completed at least 4 GCSEs (including English, Maths and Science), and may also have completed AS, A levels or a Level III qualification at college. With the support the Department of Employment and Learning and our training provider, Northern Region College, Ryobi offers a flexible programme where apprentices can complete a BTEC Level 3 Diploma, an HNC or an HND in engineering. The programme lasts up to four years and, on completion, apprentices will also have achieved a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) Level 3 in engineering, and will have developed the necessary skills and knowledge to prepare them for their future career within engineering. The company will continue to support the development of employees through the personal development programme, and opportunities exist for employees who wish to continue their education, for example by completing a part time degree or other relevant courses. In addition to apprentices, the company has opportunities for graduates and experienced engineers in the areas of manufacturing/process engineering, design engineering, quality engineering and maintenance.
Individuals can embark on a career in a dynamic, innovative environment, where technology, trust and challenge are at the core of the Ryobi corporate philosophy.
Photograph of new Ryobi apprentices at Northern Regional College, where they will attend for the first year of their apprenticeship
From left: Matthew McGoldrick, Matthew Halliday, Ryan Kidd, Thomas McDowell, Robert O’Callaghan, James Bell, Samuel Irwin