Thirteen new engineering apprentices have been recruited by BT in Northern Ireland.
The successful applicants join a skilled engineering workforce responsible for growing and maintaining the network infrastructure that delivers broadband, data and voice services for Northern Ireland homes, businesses and public services.
The latest intake of apprentices, ranging in age from 18 to 30, will embark on an 18 month programme co-ordinated by Engineering Training Services (ETS) Belfast with time spent at skill centres; Springvale Learning, Belfast and the BT Training centre Antrim.
Apprentice Fiona Curtis, Newry, said: “I just couldn’t resist applying for such an opportunity. I always wanted a career where I could combine theory with the hans on experience of learning about new technologies”
Alex Crossan, Networks Director, BT, Northern Ireland said: “It is essential that we continue to have the skilled engineers we need to grow, maintain and improve our network which is delivering an increasingly sophisticated range of services. Our new apprentices will have a key role to play in our plans and in particular, the on-going deployment of super-fast broadband across Northern Ireland.”
“Again this year there has been unprecedented interest in our apprenticeship scheme with more than 300 applications received in Northern Ireland in this latest round alone. This level of interest, alongside our ambitious fibre broadband roll-out programme, has led to the decision to continue our policy of offering engineering apprenticeships here in Northern Ireland.”
“In these difficult economic times the continuation of our apprenticeship programme clearly demonstrates the value we place on our highly skilled workforce and shows a firm commitment by BT to continue to provide a first class service for our industry.”