Innovative Technology, a leading global provider of cash handling technology, has opened its doors to twenty-one school, college and university students, the largest group ever to join its summer programme for students.

 

Now in its fourth year, the structured work experience scheme offers students valuable paid experience over the summer and is part of Innovative Technology’s continuing commitment to the development of science and engineering skills in the North West. Responding to record levels of interest and continued strong growth in demand for its products, the programme was expanded by over 60% this year. Over 30% of this year’s intake are returning students.

 

School leavers, college and university students commenced work in early July and will complete their programme at the end of August, gaining an insight into the practical applications of their studies and obtaining real work experience. The students are working across all parts of the business from recruitment and IT, to operations and mechanical and electronics engineering and are coached and mentored during their time with the firm.

 

Aidan Towey, Managing Director of Innovative Technology said: “We’re delighted to have been able to expand the programme this year. As a global leader in technology we recognise the importance of high quality education at all levels, but that is just part of the equation. Young people need real experience of work too. Business leaders continue to complain that young people aren’t prepared for work, yet very few actually offer it themselves. Properly structured paid work experience is a win-win situation. Young people bring new ideas and a different perspective which can inject new life into projects. As an employer, we benefit from the opportunity to harness and develop any young talent we spot. I just wish more businesses would give it a go and open their doors to students of all ages. Meaningful, paid work experience needs to become the norm.” 

 

Kaine Chapman (17), from Oldham, who is studying A-level chemistry, biology and geology at Oldham Sixth Form College and is on his first placement at Innovative Technology, said: “My placement has been specifically designed to suit me, focusing on material sciences. I’ve tested and analysed materials using a range of techniques, including infrared spectrometer techniques. This is the best work placement I've ever had. I've been to other businesses where I just stuffed envelopes but this is totally different. I love it - it's really interesting.”

 

Carole Harker, Innovative Technology’s Recruitment Manager, said: “The success this year is in the diversity of applicants we've attracted and the experiences we’re offering. While the scheme covers all areas of our business, there is a strong bias to science, engineering and software skills. These skills are the driving force of Innovative Technology’s success and are vital to our future. We’re delighted to be able to offer paid work experience to the next generation of innovators.”

 

The scheme builds on the success of Innovative Technology’s existing initiatives, including its industrial placement programme and graduate recruitment, which have contributed strongly to the continued growth of the business.

 

Innovative Technology is continuing to expand and currently has a wide range of career opportunities for creative and motivated individuals across the fields of software and mechanical design engineering. Full details can be found with the careers section of our website.

 

 

 

Image shows: Kaine Chapman, Aidan Towey and some of this year's summer placement students

 

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