WMB Ltd is a successful Salford-based business providing electrical and mechanical contracting services to the commercial and industrial, health and educational sectors throughout the North West.
Established in 1982, WMB Ltd have continued to thrive and grow, expanding their business in 2011 with the introduction of mechanical services. Today, they work with a number of high-profile customers, including Manchester City Council, The University of Manchester, Cargill and many local building contractors. Last year, WMB Ltd produced all of the electrical and mechanical infrastructure works, maintenance and call outs for Manchester Christmas Markets.
As a growing business, they recognise the importance of having a skilled and knowledgeable workforce – and Company Director Steve Dearden, understands better than most, the vital role apprentices can play in ensuring that’s the case.
Said Steve: “I’m proud to have started my own career as an apprentice. It really helped me to progress and grow with the company, helping to shape it into the successful business that it is today. I value the knowledge and support I gained from taking that journey. Our original directors, Steve Burns and Gordon Wharmby, first started the legacy with apprenticeships - without their help, support and faith in my abilities, I would not be in the position I am today.”
“It’s why I’m passionate about promoting apprenticeships and because, as an employer, I can see the tangible benefit it’s having on the success of the business. We currently have 7 apprentices between the businesses and have plans to expand this further in 2018.”
Creating a skilled workforce through apprenticeships
Liam Ward and Andy Matishi started at the company last summer, following completion of their Electrics Study Programme at The Growth Company’s Greater Manchester SkillCentre in Trafford Park. Combining classroom-based study with employment-led training, the programme helped them both to gain the skills and experience needed to move onto their level 3 apprenticeship with WMB Ltd.
Speaking of his experience, Andy said: “WMB have been great with us. They’ve supervised us fitting sockets and bending conduits. Doing this skilled work has been new and I’ve enjoyed it. WMB have treated us like full-time staff and we’ve been given the responsibility to apply ourselves at work.”
“I would recommend WMB Ltd as an employer due to the people that work there, and I would also recommend apprenticeships because they’re a practical way to get qualified.”
To celebrate the success of the current electrical and mechanical apprentices at WMB Ltd, Paul Dennett, the City Mayor of Salford, paid a visit to the company on Friday 9th March for National Apprenticeship Week. Speaking of the value of apprenticeships for local businesses, the Mayor said: “It was fantastic to meet the apprentices first hand and see how WMB Ltd is building a skilled workforce. I’d like to publically thank WMB for helping local people to grow within their business.”
“Apprentices can be developed and nurtured to build a qualified team to meet future business needs. Offering real apprenticeship positions is an essential part of being a responsible employer and I would like more businesses in our city to commit to providing opportunities.”
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