Welsh Businesses Embrace Apprenticeships for Strategic Workforce Development
National Apprenticeship Week 2026 has become a significant platform for Welsh businesses to promote apprenticeships as a solution to ongoing skills shortages and recruitment challenges. Employers across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and energy, are emphasizing the importance of apprenticeships in their strategic workforce development plans.
Welsh Businesses Integrating Apprenticeships
In a recent episode of the Business News Wales People & Skills podcast, several employers highlighted the advantages of the Welsh apprenticeship model. This system allows organizations to cover wages, while the Welsh Government funds training through accredited providers. This collaboration is a key factor in embedding apprenticeships into workforce planning.
Flotek’s Successful Apprenticeship Strategy
Flotek, a managed service provider established in 2022, is a prime example. The company has quickly scaled up by acquiring businesses and now employs about 130 people across Wales and England. Managing Director Malcolm Holland stated that apprenticeship programs have enabled Flotek to create a sustainable talent pipeline. The company actively recruits individuals who may not pursue traditional university paths, ensuring that the skill development is aligned with their focus on IT, cyber, and communication services.
- Flotek emphasizes apprenticeships as part of workforce planning.
- Programs support succession planning and long-term skill development.
- Apprentices range from school leavers to career changers.
Enhancing the Public Sector Workforce
In the public sector, the Hywel Dda University Health Board is also leveraging apprenticeships for workforce development. Since launching its Apprenticeship Academy in 2019, the health board has broadened its focus from adult general nursing to other critical areas such as digital services, finance, and corporate governance.
Nicola Fourie, the Apprenticeship Academy Co-ordinator, noted that this training model addresses future workforce needs. It offers hands-on experience while being supported by seasoned professionals, which is essential for preparing for an ageing population’s healthcare demands.
- Apprenticeship Academy initiated in 2019.
- Programs cover diverse sectors such as finance and digital services.
- Real-world training is emphasized to develop necessary skills.
Future-proofing the Energy Sector
ENGIE UK is another organization recognizing the value of apprenticeships. With a focus on its Welsh pumped storage hydro sites, the company is investing in apprentice training to ensure the continuity of critical infrastructure. Jen Freeland, UK Talent Development and DEI Manager at ENGIE, mentioned that apprenticeships are vital for planning refurbishment projects at locations like Dinorwig and Ffestiniog.
- ENGIE UK recruits apprentices in engineering, IT, and project management.
- Local partnerships with providers help train community members.
- Apprenticeships are viewed as key for knowledge transfer.
Changing Perceptions of Apprenticeships
Throughout these organizations, there is a growing consensus that apprenticeships are a practical approach to addressing skills gaps. They are increasingly recognized as integral to comprehensive workforce strategies rather than mere supplementary training options.
The Welsh Government’s Apprenticeship Programme, supported by training providers across Wales, continues to foster these developmental opportunities. As employers across various sectors adapt to emerging workforce needs, apprenticeships are shaping up to be a fundamental component of their long-term strategies.
