Scottish Water contract boosts apprenticeship scheme

As part of the multi-million pound contract T.O.M. Rental Vehicle, will provide fleet maintenance and management services to SW, enabling it to expand its apprenticeship workforce of 60 by a further eight in the short-term. It is anticipated that more than 20 apprenticeships will be offered later in the year.

T.O.M managing director Jim Rafferty, said: “We are delighted to be the chosen partner, to Scottish Water which, together with other contracts we have secured, will assist ongoing business and employee growth opportunities for T.O.M.

“We employ over 230 people from our depots in Airdrie and Broxburn. As a fiercely loyal employer, committed to job creation and investment, we feel T.O.M provides a strong, resilient platform for employees to grow their skills, with our support.”

MSP for Airdrie & Shotts and cabinet secretary for Infrastructure and Capital Investment Alex Neil welcomed the move to boost apprenticeships in the area.

Mr Neil said: “I am delighted with the agreement between Scottish Water and T.O.M which will see so many new apprenticeship places for the local area.

“It is also brilliant to see a local business like T.O.M spread and grow across Scotland. I hope that as we seek inward investment for business growth in the Airdrie & Shotts area people can look to the likes of T.O.M and see that this is a good place to do business.”

Meanwhile, SW chair Ronnie Mercer said the partnership fits in with its business model and commitment to providing apprenticeships.

He said: “Scottish Water is absolutely delighted to form this nationwide partnership with T.O.M and the fact that they are bringing on apprentices is first-class and fits in very well with our business model to create outstanding value for money, first-class customer service and opportunities for young people in apprenticeships.

“Scottish Water and our supply chain partners are delivering many opportunities across Scotland for apprentices and graduates.”

Carys Matthews