Houghton International, a renowned electro-mechanical repairer in Northeast England, is proud to shine a spotlight on its commitment to nurturing talent through its Small Works Department. Going beyond traditional apprenticeship programs, Houghton International has developed its small works division into a dedicated training ground for apprentices, emphasising the importance of investing in young careers and fostering a culture of growth and development.
In an industry where skilled professionals are in high demand, Houghton International recognises the critical role that apprenticeships play in bridging skill gaps and building a sustainable talent pipeline. By integrating apprenticeship training into its small works services, Houghton International not only provides essential repair and maintenance services but also offers invaluable hands-on experience and mentorship opportunities for aspiring engineers.
In an era where skill shortages loom large over businesses, Houghton International stands out as an inspiration, demonstrating the transformative power of apprenticeships. “Our apprenticeship scheme has been critical to our success,” says Craig Hutton, Operations Director at Houghton International. “We recognise that many young individuals may not even be aware of electro-mechanical engineering as a career path. That’s why we’ve invested in nurturing talent from within our community.”
“At Houghton International, we believe in the power of apprenticeships to shape the future of engineering,” shares Chris Lisle, former apprentice and now head of department at Houghton International. “That’s why we’ve made our Small Works Department the dedicated training ground for our apprentices. It’s not just about fixing machines; it’s about empowering the next generation of engineers and giving them the tools they need to succeed.”
“We are more than just a repair service; we are custodians of engineering skills, providing development for young, aspiring apprentices,” adds Craig Hutton. “Every time a customer sends a low-kilowatt asset for repair, they’re not just receiving a quality service; they’re investing in the future of engineering in our region. This is a huge part of our culture, and our customers like it.”
For many of Houghton International’s customers, the journey from apprentice to skilled professional is a familiar one. As former apprentices themselves, they understand the transformative impact of hands-on training and mentorship. By choosing Houghton International’s small works services, customers not only receive quality repair and maintenance services but also actively support the development of young talent in the region.
“We believe that investing in young careers isn’t just good for business; it’s good for the community as a whole,” adds Hutton. “We encourage other businesses in the region to follow suit and make talent development a core part of their culture and service offerings. As a result, the regions businesses can prosper, and we can build a brighter future for the next generation of engineers.”
Houghton International’s Small Works Department, under the guidance of Operations Director Craig Hutton, remains committed to excellence in service, training, and mentorship. By prioritising the growth and development of young talent, Houghton International continues to uphold its legacy of engineering innovation and community impact in Northeast England.
With a dedication to quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction, Houghton International’s Small Works Department ensures that every repair and maintenance service not only meets the highest standards but also contributes to the growth and development of future engineering leaders. Through ongoing investment in apprenticeship programs and a steadfast commitment to empowering young talent, Houghton International remains at the forefront of electro-mechanical engineering excellence.