Able Kain and Alfie shift onto the next level

Two apprentices who have been working alongside top engineers thanks to Upturn – are now shifting onto their next challenge.

Kain Howarth and Alfie Maders have been doing their work-based learning with Diodes – who supply high-quality semiconductor products to the world’s leading companies in the automotive, industrial, computing, consumer electronics, and communications markets.

And their experience of employment at the company’s Chadderton base Monday to Friday, plus their learning and a growing maturity has enabled them to take the next step – of working unsociable hours.

Their Upturn-brokered apprenticeships which last 3-4 years and include a one-day release at Oldham Training Centre, have left the lads brimming with promise and confidence.

Kane commented: “I have been working alongside tool owners and other shift workers for over two years, developing practical skills, knowledge, and experience, with plenty of guidance along the way. The move to shift will help enhance this still further as I will be working alongside engineers and technicians full-time, which has been the aim since starting, as this is the next step forward in my apprenticeship.”

Similarly, Alfie has dedicated two years Monday-Friday to Diodes and said: “I am very excited to be transitioning onto shifts in August. This step means my development will go even further as I’m getting the real shift experience that I have been working towards since the start. I will be able to get more knowledge of the shift techs and engineers do, as I will be working with them full time.”

For a decade now, Upturn’s Apprenticeship Academy has been creating opportunities for local young people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) pathways.

Janet Whitehead, Head of Employability and Training at Upturn, concluded: “These apprenticeships are a great opportunity for candidates interested in a career in electronics and electrical engineering maintenance. You are allocated study time, additional support from your dedicated engineer and line manager, and of course have the team here at Upturn to help you.

A big thank you to Diodes Incorporated for leading by example, supporting, and creating opportunities for our young local talent to thrive.” 

Through its Apprenticeship Academy, Upturn is committed to building a community of employers and their representatives who are passionate about developing young talent and enabling them to address challenges and barriers to work.

And that’s in your interest too, as it could help plug any skills gaps!

If you share that vision, contact us today at -  https://www.upturn.org.uk/en/contact/