Siemens to take on record number of apprentices in 2012

For the first time in decades, the number of new apprentices at the firm is now higher than that of graduates. The company says it is now recruiting similar levels of apprentices in the UK compared to Germany, where the company has its global headquarters. During a factory tour at Siemen's gas turbine plant in Berlin, Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: "Today's announcement is fantastic news. Apprenticeships give young people an invaluable opportunity to learn on the job and allow employers like Siemens to build a workforce with the practical skills their business needs. It is a telling fact that Sir William Siemens himself, who founded Siemens in the UK 169 years ago, progressed from the shop floor to the top floor, having started his career as an apprentice." Roland Aurich, Siemens' ceo, added: "Creating industry ready skills and giving the confidence of aspiration to young people from all walks of life is critical to address the serious skills shortage we face in industry. At Siemens we support the UK government's efforts to rebalance the economy with an increased focus on manufacturing and engineering." The new intake of apprentices will be based at offices and factories in Scotland, Newcastle, Lincoln, Manchester, Sheffield, Leeds and Poole. More than half will take up roles in the energy sector, while 36 will join Siemens' wind power business.