FINNING UK & Ireland, the world’s largest dealer of Cat machines, engines, equipment, and power solutions, are aiming to increase its number of apprentice recruits, with up to 24 roles available across the company’s 10 branches nationwide.

The Finning Apprenticeship Academy, founded in 2007, boasts a 92.3% achievement rate – with the national average being just over 60%. Last year, the Finning Apprenticeship Academy took on 24 new apprentices, as well as hiring all qualified members of the graduating class in full-time positions across the company.

With over one quarter of the current construction workforce set to retire within the next five years, the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board suggests the industry will need around 40,000 additional workers by 2030 to meet existing demand for major infrastructure projects.

Acknowledging the need for industry training in order to bridge the skills gap, the Finning Apprenticeship Academy focuses on improving education prospects, creating an inclusive environment and embracing technology to encourage younger generations into the industry.

Explaining her route into the business via an apprenticeship, Katlyn Dunbar, service engineer in Finning UK & Ireland’s data centre team, said: ‘Inspiring entryways into the industry are essential in a field which is only increasing in demand.

‘As an apprentice, I studied a range of courses and learned so much through multi-disciplinary training. If someone is interested in engineering, they should just go for it. If more young people, especially girls, come forward and share their passion for engineering, then the likelihood is even more will follow.’

The Finning Apprenticeship Academy consists of a four-year curriculum designed to equip apprentices with the skills to succeed in the company’s construction and energy divisions. Combined with hands-on experience working across multiple areas of the business, the recruits are given a chance to develop skills for life to help future-proof their careers.

‘The importance of increasing comprehensive training across the sector is absolutely paramount,’ explained Craig Smallman, engineering academy manager at Finning UK & Ireland.

‘The skills gap is no secret. We need to make a conscious effort to help the younger generation to understand how rewarding a career in engineering can be. Our apprenticeship programme is part of the solution and helps open doors to hard-working people from all backgrounds.’

Finning are currently hiring for 2026, with placements available in Dublin, Peterborough, Glasgow, Cannock, Leeds, Chesterfield, Winsford, Aberdeen, Lisburn, and Llantrisant.

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