Rolls-Royce see benefit of project manager Apprentices

Rolls-Royce has reviewed their pipeline of talent into project management roles and realises the benefits of having a dedicated Apprenticeship scheme that will provide a solid foundation in the skill set required for this discipline.

Last month the world-leading provider of power systems and services gave a fantastic start to the careers of five budding project managers by placing them on their Higher Apprenticeship programme. In addition, Rolls-Royce have committed to hiring a further 10 to 15 Apprentices in September 2013.

There are many pockets of world-class project management practice within Rolls-Royce and this Apprenticeship is a great opportunity to bring all of this expertise together to develop a training programme that enables young people to develop solid career opportunities whilst also meeting company objectives.

Graham Schuhmacher, Rolls-Royce head of development service, said: “Rolls-Royce Higher Apprenticeship programmes give participants the opportunity to achieve degree level qualifications while also gaining essential work experience within the organisation.

“We have worked closely with APM to ensure the Higher Apprenticeship in Project Management offers an exciting and comprehensive training package that also meets with our business requirements.”

APM worked in conjunction with Skills CFA to develop the Higher Apprenticeship in Project Management, which is equivalent to the first year of a degree course.

The funded qualification has been created in conjunction with employers and training providers, with more than 80 organisations being actively involved in the consultation and design to ensure the qualification reflects current demand in the market.

Reduce youth unemployment

With this programme, APM and the employers will be directly contributing to the fight to reduce youth unemployment, which is currently running at over 20%. A Higher Apprenticeship in Project Management will provide aspiring young professionals with the opportunity to develop competence, skill and knowledge-sets and make project management a career of first choice.

The aim of the programme is to create new pathways into the project management profession, improve the management of projects and embed vital project skills in organisations throughout England.

If your organisation is interested in learning more about employing Apprentices please contact APM. Alternatively, for more information about the scheme please visit the Higher Apprenticeship in Project Management webpage.