The programme launched in 1994 and, since then, has employed 245 apprentices. Each year, on average, Ryder receives 160 applications for 10-12 apprentice vacancies across its 21 service locations.
Apprentices undertake the IMI Certificate in Heavy Vehicle Maintenance and Repair, working alongside qualified technicians in the preventative maintenance and repair of Ryder’s commercial vehicle fleet. Each apprentice is assigned a mentor for three years to coach and support their development.
They attend Stephenson College, in Coalville, on a block-release basis; those who perform well can continue their training on Level 4 Diploma or Level 4 HNC courses.
David Hunt, Ryder’s VP and managing director, says: “Our apprenticeship programme is as important as ever 25 years since its inception, and we are very proud of all of our graduates. We are emotionally invested in our apprentices and technicians, striving to give them the problem-solving skills and the resilience to build a successful career with Ryder for the long term.
“As the transport sector faces its biggest challenges to address vehicle emissions and clean air, attracting and retaining high quality apprentice technicians positively contributes to the increasingly complex needs of our customer base.”