Building Meaningfully: How North is Investing in Engineering Apprentices 

Written by Ian Reid, Head of Field Engineering at North

The Safety & Security industry is currently navigating an unprecedented challenge in accessing and retaining high-quality engineers. North’s ‘grow our own’ strategy reflects a commitment to attracting new talent to the industry while ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills for a successful career. 

Introducing the North Apprentice Academy

The academy was created in response to the challenges apprentices often face while navigating their careers. Success in the industry is not solely about the technical skills acquired at college or on-site; it also requires effective communication, time and documentation management, and an understanding of the core values of the business. Recognising these needs, we worked with our People Team to develop a structured programme that would turn this vision into reality.  

Key Areas of Training

Each session includes a dedicated worksheet to reinforce learning and facilitate practical application. These worksheets also serve as tools for senior engineers to assess apprentices' progress and identify areas for further development. 

The success of the programme also relies on the mentors who guide apprentices throughout their journey. To support them, specialised training was introduced, covering mentorship best practices such as creating personalised training plans, setting SMART goals, and utilising resources to enhance apprentice development. By empowering mentors, North has fostered a culture of continuous growth that benefits both apprentices and the wider team. 

One of the most rewarding aspects of the academy is the sense of community it fosters. Apprentices not only develop valuable skills but also build connections with peers who are at similar stages in their careers. This network of support is just as critical as the training itself, contributing to a well-rounded professional journey. 

A Lasting Investment in Future Talent

The Apprentice Academy exemplifies North’s dedication to investing in the future workforce. By providing apprentices with the right tools, support, and connections, the initiative helps lay strong foundations for long and successful careers. This is not just an investment in today’s apprentices—it is about building a lasting legacy of learning, development, and growth.