A BARRHEAD firm aims to bounce back stronger than ever after the coronavirus crisis by focusing on how it can train and develop its workforce.

A.C. Whyte, one of Scotland’s most established contractors in the refurbishment sector, has started recruitment for its skills academy, first launched three years ago in partnership with West College Scotland.

The company realised a shortage of skilled operatives was a future risk to the industry and, together with the college, developed an innovative course to secure a quality and sustainable workforce.

Its academy offers local candidates, from varied backgrounds, the opportunity to learn and master skills to become fully-qualified external wall insulation installers.

Those who graduate from the academy are guaranteed full-time employment with the company after successful completion of the 12-month, formally-accredited course.

Jennifer Phin, managing director of A.C. Whyte, said: “We are very grateful to have weathered this current situation and, with such a positive focus on job creation, economic stimulation and skills development, we are proud to be part of the solution.

“At A.C. Whyte we heavily invest in our workforce and our people are our strength. We are looking to recruit the next generation of future stars.

“The students will learn everything that makes our business unique. It’s an incredible opportunity and it offers candidates immense potential.”

The course provides the students, or ‘Akademos’ as they are known, the chance to develop practical skills, taught in a bespoke workshop at the college’s Greenock campus, as well as practical hands-on experience out on live sites across the country.

Kenny Mearns, 20, had his heart set on a career in football but, after some disappointments, he focused his attention on learning a trade that would allow him to work outdoors.

He graduated from the skills academy and is now a qualified external wall insulation installer with A.C. Whyte.

Kenny said: “Working outdoors and hands-on suits me. Joining the academy, gaining my trade and working with A.C. Whyte has given me a real start in life.”

Anyone who is interested in joining the skills academy should visit here.