Since the launch of its official apprenticeship program in 2018, A B Graphic International (ABG) has remained firmly committed to investing in young engineering talent. The program has already welcomed more than 32 apprentices.

Plus, with numbers increasing each year, ABG is continuing to invest in the next generation of skilled professionals.

Today, ABG has 18 apprentices, including this year’s intake, training across various departments. These include areas like mechanical, electrical, and the company’s in-house machine shop. ABG’s multi-skilled apprenticeship model provides hands-on, real-world experience alongside structured college learning. This way, trainees can earn a qualification while developing practical expertise that can only be gained on the job.

Many former apprentices have remained with ABG, building successful long-term careers within the company. Dave Trainer, who now serves as quality and compliance manager, and Steve Playforth, currently the digital team leader, both began their careers as apprentices. Dave Brearley, now the production manager, serves as another example of ABG’s commitment to internal progression. Notably, Brearley’s son has since joined the program also. Meanwhile, Andy Playforth, a skilled CNC Machinist, also started his career path through the apprenticeship route.

Advocating for the future

Ben Gregory, ABG’s service manager, is a strong advocate for the program, having joined the company as an apprentice. “I started my apprenticeship when I was 18,” he says. “It allowed me to get a qualification while earning money and gave me valuable life skills you don’t normally get if you go straight into further education. That foundation helped me grow into my role. And 19 years later, I’m proud to say I’m now service manager.”

Current apprentice Harrison Brearley echoes that sentiment: “I’ve always been interested in engineering and making things with my hands, so I thought an apprenticeship at ABG would be a great opportunity to gain a qualification, learn from experienced professionals and earn a wage at the same time. There’s no better place to learn than from practicing engineers in a real engineering environment.”

Evelyn Rogers, one of ABG’s female apprentices, adds, “I chose an electrical apprenticeship at ABG, as I wanted to learn a valuable skill that would offer a range of opportunities and routes throughout my career. Gaining hands-on experience in an environment filled with engineers with years of experience is a much better way for me to learn.”

ABG’s apprenticeship program is designed to nurture a variety of skills and experiences. It helps young people align their career aspirations with real opportunities. Meanwhile, they’re supported by a team that values development and long-term growth. The program also plays a vital role in strengthening the local economy by providing practical pathways to employment.

Beyond engineering

ABG is also expanding its apprenticeship offering beyond engineering. This includes new opportunities to upskill its current workforce. For example, the company’s customer support team leader recently began an apprenticeship in operational management. In addition, ABG has developed an internal behavioral development program for its apprentices, designed to complement the college curriculum. The program focuses on behavioral competencies and includes monthly development interventions led by ABG leaders or their teams to enhance personal and professional growth.

“As a business, we’re keen to support our people and help them develop in a way that matches their individual skills now and into the future,” says Karen Robinson, ABG’s HR manager. “We’re proud to offer meaningful careers, not just jobs. And our apprentices are a vital part of that story. As a director trustee at HETA (Humberside Engineering Training Association), I’m also in a privileged position to help strengthen the relationship between colleges, industry, and employers. This enables us to create the best possible experience for both students and employees – now and into the future.”