New Bodywork Training Centre at Don-Bur
Main picture above: Jim Hollins (Mentor) and Mandy Dube (Trainee)
Don-Bur is one of the biggest employers in Stoke-on-Trent and, following the successful launch of the Welder Training Hub in January 2022, the flourishing business has invested a further £45,000 in a new Bodywork Training Centre at their head office location in Longton, Stoke-on-Trent. The move highlights both the importance of the workforce and the ongoing need for continuous improvement.
The new dedicated facility will focus on new starters and apprentices and is designed to develop a wide range of practical skills required for building commercial vehicle bodies and trailers. Numerous areas are covered including interpretation of engineering drawings, the correct use of tools and Health & Safety compliance to name a few. The unit will be run and supported by three long-serving team members with an impressive 40+ years of experience between them, each with their own specialist knowledge.
Eddie Guest, the centre manager, comments “When a new starter is placed straight onto the shop floor in their first week, it can be daunting and it’s often challenging for production teams to dedicate precious time towards their training. The new Training Centre is a valuable resource which provides trainees with a structured and practical improvement plan.”
Mandy Dube, a new employee at Don-Bur, learning at the Training Centre added “It’s been really fun. The mentors have always got time for you and I’ve learned loads. I was a bit worried before I started because I didn’t have much experience but they’ve been great to me.”
The new Bodywork Training Centre will support numerous other development programmes already in place. Lisa Blake, Human Resources Manager at Don-Bur said “The business is built on our workforce so it’s critical we provide every opportunity for personal development and a better working environment.”
Pictured above: Colin James (Mentor), Ian Kirkham (Mentor), and Nathan Brain (Trainee)
Published: Fri 16 Jun 2023
Updated: Thu 11 Apr 2024
Author: Richard Owens
Published by: Don-Bur
