Apprentice works his way into a job at South Tyneside firm

David Spoors took his first step into the world of engineering when he was taken on as an apprentice by Faltec Europe Limited.

The company is based in West Boldon and employs more than 500 staff.

After completing a BTEC Level 2 in Performing Engineering Operations and BTEC Level 3 in General Engineering at Durham College and an HNC at Gateshead College, he has been taken on to the payroll at the company as a fully-qualified maintenance technician.

The 23-year-old said: “Growing up, I always had a fascination with cars, my dad is a maintenance supervisor at Faltec, and from an early age I helped him fix spare parts on cars that he owned over the years.

“Although I thought about a career in sales, I decided against it, and wanted to take the knowledge and experience my dad had given me into the manufacturing sector.

“Having looked at a range of apprenticeship opportunities, I chose to train with Faltec, as the company and the automotive sector is fast-paced and challenging.

“I am fortunate in that I have been really supported by the team I work in, they have mentored me from day one and the company has really invested in me.

“I have recently completed a Level 1 and Level 2 hydraulics course, so I am building my knowledge all the time.”

Mr Spoors added: “The job itself is challenging and at times can be very demanding. Flexibility is key!

“As a fully-qualified maintenance technician, I work a number of shifts and if there is an issue on-site it needs to be fixed immediately.

“The automotive sector is time sensitive and a delay could hold up a customer order.

“I am a firm believer that to progress you need to be dedicated and have a constant desire to learn.

“So, my short-term goal is to become a team leader.

“I would recommend an apprenticeship to other young people, the career prospects it offers are second to none.”

Faltec Europe Limited was formed in 1989 as Hashimoto Ltd. It was later renamed in 2012 as Faltec Europe Limited.

The company is part of the Faltec Group, which has its headquarters in Kawasaki, Japan.

It provides supplied to the automotive industry and its customers currently include Nissan, Land Rover, Toyota and Honda.

For information on Faltec Europe Limited, visit its website HERE.