Dale Barraclough, aged 26, has worked his way up to become senior production engineer after joining Daletech Electronics straight from school
Pudsey manufacturer Daletech Electronics is opening up opportunities for the next generation by engaging with local schools and students at UTC Leeds on work experience placements, careers fairs, mock interviews and employability panels.
“The aim is to give students hands on experience of modern manufacturing and help them understand what employers are looking for when they’re recruit young people,” said Daletech managing director Tracey Dawson.
The employability panel at Farnley Academy, organised through the Ahead Partnership, gave a group of 120 students from years 9 and 10 the opportunity to put questions about the world of work directly to a local employer.
Tracey also attended a lunchtime careers fair at Elliot Hudson College, together with Mike Rimmer, operations director at Brandon Medical.
Daletech specialises in subcontract design and manufacture of electronics components, including primary circuit boards, and enjoys an industry-wide reputation for excellence.
The company recently recruited its first apprentice from UTC Leeds, the new school for 14-19 year olds which focuses on equipping young people for careers in engineering and manufacturing.
After a week-long placement earlier this year, 16-year-old Josh Abbott joined the company after completing his GCSEs in June. He’s the fifth school student this year to spend time with the production team as part of a work experience placement.
“It’s important to give young people the opportunity to do the job and be involved with the work of the wider team rather than have them making cups of tea.
“Josh phoned and asked if we were taking on apprentices. We were delighted that he approached us because we already knew his capabilities, so the recruitment process was much easier.”
Opportunity has also been extended to a marketing undergraduate from the University of Bradford who is working with Tracey on a six week placement to develop a marketing plan for the business.
“It’s about opening up opportunities to young people but it’s also about being aware of the opportunities they bring and the contribution they can make,” says Tracey.
