KMF (Precision Sheet Metal) recently welcomed Business Secretary Dr Vince Cable to its Newcastle under Lyme premises, who was left impressed by the company's investment in apprentice training and manufacturing technology.
The visit was part of current government strategy of developing long-term partnerships with industry and KMF was selected, due to it being the largest sub-contract manufacturer of precision sheet metal components in the UK.
Of equal interest to Dr Cable was KMFs investment in its apprentice training scheme, which is self-funded and has been extremely successful, with former-apprentices now undertaking highly skilled roles in the manufacturing facility and some taking on senior management roles. Indeed, the guide for Dr Cable's tour of the factory was fourth year apprentice Sam Dutton. Sam's confidence in explaining the manufacturing processes, even getting him to operate a press brake, was well received by the Business Secretary, who also engaged in long conversations with other apprentices during his tour.
Commenting on his visit, Dr Cable said: "KMF is a really inspirational engineering company with the best apprenticeship programme I've ever seen. The young people there were so professional and highly motivated: a brilliant example. KMF's commitment to skills provision, apprenticeships and in-house training sets a very high standard and being given a tour by a current apprentice who will be the next generation of engineers added to the visit."