A CHANCE to work with an award-winning business with a worldwide reputation for
innovation has given two apprentices an exciting start to their careers.
Georgia Fee, 19, and Chloe Ferguson, 17, have both started customer services
apprenticeships with Forth Engineering.
Forth Engineering, which is based at Maryport, Barrow, and Cleator Moor, specialises in
technology solutions for sectors which include nuclear, oil and gas, and renewables.
Georgia and Chloe both say they are gaining invaluable experience of working across
the business, while also learning vital life skills and earning at the same time.
One day every fortnight they both attend college at Lillyhall through Gen Il as part of
their apprenticeship qualification.
Chloe and Georgia have both been working on developing an App for Forth which will
help streamline the company’s internal processes as well as marketing its innovative
robot products to potential buyers.
Georgia, 19, who completed her A-Levels at St Benedict’s Sixth Form in Whitehaven,
said: “I have been looking at the functionality of the App, working with managing director
Mark Telford and a developer. The App will help the company in different ways so it’s
great to be involved in a project like that.
“The benefit of working with a small business is that you get involved in lots of different
areas. I do all the social media for Forth as well. It’s great to be developing these skills,
and working towards a qualification at the same time.
“It’s also the life skills that an apprenticeship teaches you, such as learning to take
responsibility and how to manage money.”
Chloe, 17, who attended Workington Academy Sixth Form, said: “Gaining experience of
the working environment is key. You get to work with different people, meet new people
and deal with lots of clients.
“I have been working in a range of different departments which gives you an overview of
the whole business. I have been learning to use more software such as the Sage
system which means I am able to help the accounts department with invoicing.
“My advice to anyone thinking of doing an apprenticeship would be ‘don’t be scared’.
Coming from school you might think it’s daunting going into a working environment
where it’s all adults. But if you get a good company like Forth it’s great. I would say ‘go
for it’.”
Mark Telford, managing director of Forth, said: “Both Georgia and Chloe are excellent
additions to the Forth team. They have a great attitude, are developing their skills and
experience all the time, and are both making a positive impact on our business.”