Milwaukee Tools, a US manufacturer of heavy-duty power tools and accessories, has partnered with electrical training provider JTL to support apprentices entering the construction and building services engineering sectors.
The partnership will initially be rolled out through a pilot programme at JTL’s Birmingham and Thames Valley training centres, providing apprentices with access to professional-grade equipment, practical training, and industry-focused learning opportunities.
JTL supports around 8,000 electrical and plumbing apprentices through its network of 17 training centres, as well as partnerships with colleges and other training providers across England.
According to the organisations, the initiative is intended to help apprentices develop skills that reflect the requirements of modern construction sites while addressing wider skills shortages across the industry.
As part of the programme, Milwaukee’s Job Site Solution Specialists will deliver practical sessions at selected training centres and colleges. The sessions will complement training already provided by JTL’s tutors and training officers.
The programme will give apprentices experience using the types of tools and equipment commonly found on construction sites, while also covering safety and practical working methods.
Apprentices will also have the opportunity to visit Milwaukee’s UK Experience Centre in Aylesbury, where they can take part in training sessions and learn more about developments in construction technology.
The partnership will expose learners to technologies including Milwaukee’s MX FUEL battery platform, alongside its M18 and M12 cordless tool ranges.
Industry training and hands-on experience
Dan Abley, College Programme Manager at Milwaukee Tools, says, “The skills gap in construction isn’t just a recruitment problem; it’s a perception problem.
“Young people need to see that the trades offer genuine career progression, with powerful technology and career paths that rival any office-based role.
“This partnership puts professional-grade equipment in learners’ hands from day one, proving that construction is as innovative and technology-driven as any other sector.
“When you learn on the tools you’ll actually use in the field, you build the right habits and standards from the beginning, and that shapes your entire career.”
JTL says the collaboration will also help training providers broaden access to equipment despite ongoing funding pressures.
Chris Claydon, Chief Executive Officer of JTL, notes, “The construction sector is constantly evolving, with new technologies and tools reshaping how we work.
“This partnership with Milwaukee ensures our apprentices continue to learn using first-class, industry-leading equipment.
“JTL’s training expertise, combined with the innovative solutions Milwaukee brings, will support our apprentices to develop the skills electrical employers need now and in the future.”
Following a visit to Milwaukee’s UK Experience Centre, Kirstine Ginger, Delivery Team Manager for JTL’s Western region, comments, “It was fantastic for our delivery team to visit Milwaukee’s Experience Centre in Aylesbury and see first hand the breadth of innovation shaping the electrical industry.
“Experiences like this really bring learning to life, giving staff greater knowledge and confidence with new tools and technologies to pass on to the next generation of apprentices, while reinforcing the practical skills they are learning in training with JTL.”
The organisations say there are plans to expand the programme to additional colleges and training partners in the future.
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