The managing director of a training provider in Huddersfield, offering local people the opportunity to launch a new career as a telecoms engineer, has spoken of his pride at seeing hundreds in the town turn their lives around.

Chris Swales is MD of Skills Group, which, in partnership with Aim 2 Learn, offers free training in a range of disciplines to adults in Huddersfield, providing a fresh start or launchpad for their working lives.

The business engages with everybody – from the recently redundant, to those who have never had the confidence or skills to work, to others who are simply looking for a fresh challenge.

Each person walking through the door has their own story to tell, and Chris admits that it’s often humbling to witness the transformation.

He told Huddersfield Hub: “In today’s volatile marketplace, setting out into the world of work can be a daunting prospect. I’ve seen this first-hand hear in Huddersfield with many who have taken their first steps back into the world of work through our courses.

“Of course, there are many in our town doing incredible things for those less fortunate, and we’re not comparing ourselves to the fantastic charities and volunteers, but I truly believe that the success stories of our course graduates deserve celebrating.”

One such success story is Huddersfield man Josh, who says that taking the course was one of the best decisions of his life.

He told Huddersfield Hub: “I had been working as a fabricator in a factory, but ended up getting made redundant and spent six months out of work, before I came across the course and the work Chris was doing while browsing online.

“I knew straight away that it was something I wanted to have a go at, and it was something I was keen to engage with and throw everything into straight away. Of course, there was a little apprehension and nerves, but the whole process was straightforward – and I got such a warm welcome on my first day.

“I’m still only young, so I hadn’t got much to put on my CV, but the other good thing about the course is that they help you bring out your experience and promote yourself.

“They gave me the confidence in what I was learning to go out and get a role in the trade. It was one of the best decisions of my life.”

Josh is one of the more than 80% who land a job following completion of course, and Chris is keen to emphasise that Josh’s story is just one of many.

Chris said: “We’re extremely proud of what Josh has achieved, and he deserves all the success he gets following the hard work he’s put in, but his story is far from unique.

“And whilst Josh had a little work experience under his belt, we find that others are looking for their very first job, and the great thing about what we’re offering is that absolutely no experience is required.

“Although we work throughout the North of England, as a local lad I am so proud to be making a difference in Huddersfield, a town that has had its fair share of struggles economically.”

Telecom Skills is seeking trainee Telecommunication Engineers, due to the shortage of skilled people in the UK.

The courses are delivered by Aim 2 Learn, a training provider in operation for more than ten years.

Students undertake an intense eight-week training programme, where they will gain the necessary skills required for progression to entry level jobs.

No experience is required, the course is completely free, with classes held Monday to Friday, 9am – 4pm, in Huddersfield town centre. Learn more and register now – https://telecomskills.co.uk/wy