Esh Group welcomes 16 new apprentices

North East construction firm Esh Group has welcomed 16 new apprentices across its business, including seven who have joined the growing Esh-Stantec team.

The latest intake will gain practical experience alongside experienced colleagues while studying towards industry-recognised qualifications and developing skills for long-term careers in the sector.

Seven of the apprentices have joined Esh-Stantec as it expands its workforce to support Northumbrian Water’s AMP8 investment programme and the delivery of water and wastewater infrastructure projects across the region.

Among them is Ona-Naura Lum, who has started a level four quantity surveying apprenticeship after previously completing a year-long placement within Esh Group’s affordable housing division.

Ona-Naura said: “My placement year gave me a real insight into the industry and confirmed this was the career path I wanted to pursue. 

“Everyone was incredibly supportive, and I knew Esh was somewhere I could build a strong foundation for my future career. 

“I’m looking forward to gaining more experience on site and developing my skills as part of the apprenticeship programme.”

David Pratt, divisional director at Esh-Stantec, added: “It’s fantastic to welcome seven apprentices into Esh-Stantec as we continue to grow. 

“These apprentices will gain valuable experience working on major infrastructure projects while helping us strengthen our workforce and continue delivering for communities across the region.

“We are committed to supporting their development and helping them reach their full potential as they build their careers within the industry.”

The latest intake continues Esh Group’s investment in apprenticeships and other earn-and-learn opportunities as it looks to develop the skilled workforce needed to support its future project pipeline.

Its approach to training and development has earned the business Gold membership of The 5% Club for a third consecutive year.

The accreditation recognises employers that demonstrate a sustained commitment to apprenticeships, graduate schemes and other workplace learning opportunities.

Esh says its apprenticeship programme is designed to provide meaningful career pathways while developing talent from across the region, with the latest recruits adding to its pipeline of future skills as investment in infrastructure continues.

Darush Dodds, corporate affairs and social value director at Esh Group, added: “Investing in young people remains one of the most important ways we can secure the future of our industry. 

“Every year we continue to build on our commitment to apprenticeships, creating opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds to learn, develop and build rewarding careers within construction and the built environment.”

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