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Turnmill Engineering

Andrew Howe - Operations Director

IMG 6750

Andrew Howe - Operations Director

Turnmill Engineering

Turnmill Engineering is a regional leader in engineering and manufacturing solutions, supporting global companies with product design, development and volume manufacture.

We spoke to the Operations Director at Turnmill Engineering, Andrew Howe, about how his company has benefitted from their partnership with Newcastle College.

Could you tell us about your company?

Turnmill Engineering was established in 2017 to support global companies with product design, development and volume manufacture. With expertise in production problem-solving, reverse engineering and process improvement techniques, we help businesses to reduce costs and achieve their manufacturing targets. We are a trusted engineering partner to businesses spanning multiple industries, we supply high-quality components at a reasonable cost and are a turnkey solution for jigs, fixtures and parts. Our specialist team of experienced engineers and production operatives have decades of combined experience, helping companies to create products and improve manufacture.

The main Turnmill Engineering workshops are strategically located within the heart of the North East's advanced manufacturing sector. Our production site enables us to deliver extensive manufacturing capabilities with fast turnaround to customers in the North East, as well as further afield. We are also keen to expand our company by investing in future talent and supporting young people through their Engineering training.

 

Why did you choose to hire apprentices through Newcastle College?

We chose to hire apprentices through Newcastle College because of their exceptional team of approachable and skilled professionals. The Newcastle College Business Development Team supported us throughout the entire apprentice onboarding process, from assisting with applications and selecting the right candidates to providing ongoing support for our apprentices, both at the College and on our premises. Additionally, Newcastle College's Engineering facilities are outstanding. Their significant investment in state-of-the-art equipment mirrors the latest advancements in engineering tooling, ensuring apprentices receive hands-on training in a brilliant learning environment.

 

How have your apprentices from Newcastle College benefitted your business?

Our apprentices from Newcastle College have been invaluable to the future of our business. Their enthusiasm for learning and their ability to apply the knowledge gained at College directly to their work with us has been remarkable. With the support of Turnmill's comprehensive training programme, they are on track to become exceptional engineers who will drive the company's continued growth. We are consistently impressed by the fresh perspectives and dedication these young professionals bring and we take pride in having them as key members of our team.

 

What advice would you give to a business considering hiring an apprentice?

Hiring an apprentice is a significant commitment, but it can be incredibly rewarding for both the business and the individual. It's essential to collaborate with a reliable provider, like Newcastle College, to ensure you find the right candidate who fits well within your organisation. At Turnmill, we run a series of work experience weeks for interested candidates, allowing us to identify the best fit for our team. Additionally, providing apprentices with exposure to various areas of the business is crucial - it broadens their skills, enhances their understanding of the industry and maximises their contribution to the company's success.

 

Why would you recommend Newcastle College apprenticeships to other employers? 

Yes, we would highly recommend Newcastle College apprenticeships to other employers. The support we've received from the College has been outstanding. Their central location makes it convenient for our apprentices to travel using public transport and their facilities and equipment reflect the latest advancements in the industry. This ensures apprentices are learning in a safe, modern environment that prepares them to meet industry demands.