Tridonic, a supplier of lighting technology, has announced the recruitment of James Trudgill, a 21-year-old student and the first graduate of its Academy to join its Spennymoor team.
Working in partnership with New College Durham, the education scheme is designed to deliver and develop skills across the electronics industry, with the objective of attracting young talent into manufacturing careers.
Since September 2024, students have been able to access a Level 2 electronics course at New College.
The 1st year course led by Tina Taylor, Ideas & Training Coordinator at Tridonic, is specifically an EAL Level 2 Diploma in Engineering Operations with a Mechanical and Electrical Bias.
This has recently been confirmed as a 5-year programme, with trainers Joe Jameson and Alison Cox ready to teach 2nd year students from September 2025, aiming to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in the engineering industry.
The Academy was designed to bridge the gap between education and employment by offering students hands-on training in key manufacturing principles and skills, including hand soldering and NXT FUJI machine operation.
Through the partnership, students like James have benefitted from first-hand experience of real-world engineering and manufacturing environments. This, according to the company, is vital component of Tridonic’s wider long-term workforce strategy.
James Trudgill, Operator at Tridonic, shares his experience of the programme, stating, “It was very informative and very practical – in fact, it was my most enjoyable lesson of the day – and the trainer was excellent.
“I felt I had everything I needed to help with my training; the soldering and machine training gave me the opportunity to prepare for the start of my new role.
“Everyone at the Spennymoor facility has been very friendly and I can chat with all the operators. I’ve been made to feel relaxed.”
Looking ahead, James is already setting goals for his future, continuing, “I want to work on my leadership skills through courses and guidance from staff. My first goal is to become a cell leader at Tridonic.”
Ben Kennard, Manufacturing and Supply Chain Manager at Tridonic, adds, “We’re thrilled to see James thriving in his new role.
“His success is a testament to the value of the Academy, and we look forward to welcoming more students into the programme over many years to come.”
Tridonic says its Academy model allows it to tailor training to its specific needs, creating a pipeline of “skilled, motivated, and well-prepared candidates” in the North East of England.
For more from Tridonic, click here.