Economy Minister Ken Skates was at the Molson Coors National Contact Centre in Cardiff today to celebrate the vital role apprenticeships are playing in Wales’ growing labour market.
The visit kicks off Apprenticeship Week 2019 - a week-long celebration of the positive impact apprenticeships have on individuals and businesses. Through the Apprenticeship programme the Welsh Government currently supports individuals and businesses across a range of sectors, with a commitment to creating 100,000 apprenticeships over this Government term.
Economy Minister Ken Skates said:
“Apprenticeships are one of the most important tools at our economy’s disposal. They can provide the perfect avenue into work, allow companies to find, nurture and develop staff and ensure our economy is supported by a workforce equipped to tackle the challenges of today and which are ready for the opportunities of tomorrow.
“The Welsh Government is determined to see Wales lead the way. Two years into our ambitious commitment to deliver 100,000 apprenticeships here in Wales by 2021, we are already seeing apprenticeships across all sectors make a significant contribution to our economy. And it’s an economy and a workforce that’s growing. The last few months have seen record levels of employment in Wales, with economic inactivity at a record low. This is testament to our ongoing work to drive prosperity and increase resilience within our economy, with apprenticeships such an important part of this mix. So I’m delighted to be here to at the Molson Coors Brewing Company, one of the businesses whose customer services have felt the benefits of apprenticeships over recent years, to raise a toast to our apprentices and their continued role at the heart of our economy.”
Molson Coors currently have 21 apprentices enrolled onto the Customer Service Level 3 Apprenticeship, as well as 12 apprentices enrolled onto the Management Level 3 Apprenticeship. Upon completion of the apprenticeship the advisors receive a pay rise in their salary.