Across our networks there is some amazing innovative work being done, whether it be utilising drones to assess our network, repairing leaking pipes using CISBOT, or helping to connect and transport new low-carbon gases. Our industry is changing fast, and if we are to keep pace, then we need to make sure that we have those with the right skills to make change happen. Here at Cadent, we’re working hard to ensure that we attract the right people, help them to develop and grow, and that we enable them to reach their full potential. This week marks National Careers Week 2020, and so I thought it was worth reflecting on how we are doing just that.
Cadent recognises that we have a crucial role to play in the communities we serve - offering valuable opportunities for education, employment and personal development. Each year we take on a number of apprentices, engineering trainees, industrial placement students and graduates. We also have a successful EmployAbility scheme for local school pupils with special educational needs.
Last year, we launched our new Education & Skills programme, which has seen us forge meaningful relationships with schools across our footprint, providing educational sessions about our industry, alongside invaluable careers guidance. We recently formed partnerships with two all-girls schools, to cement our commitment to helping change the traditionally male-orientated nature of our industry. It’s great to see our people giving something back to their local community, and we look forward to continuing to grow these opportunities.
We recently hired a new Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) Manager, who is developing our D&I strategy to ensure we remain an attractive and rewarding place to work for people of all backgrounds. By setting up a range of employee-driven networks, we are ensuring our people have an opportunity to feed into our future plans, as we strive to become a business that is truly reflective of the areas we serve.
Diversity takes many forms, and we’re reaching into new territory this month, with our first ever development programme for those not in education, employment, or training (NEET). The scheme will run from 9
th – 26
th March 2020, at our office in Hinckley, Leicestershire. We see it as a valuable opportunity to give a step up in life to talented people who may not have been exposed to suitable opportunities to thrive and develop. The programme will stretch learners and give them much-needed experience to add to their CV, with a jam-packed schedule of work and formal sessions with our professional development experts.
You might also have seen some of our recent social media activity surrounding National Apprenticeship Week 2020. I’m pleased to announce that our apprenticeship schemes have now opened for application. We’re looking for the next generation of talent to drive our business forward, and I would urge you to take a look
here if you think any of our programmes could be of interest to someone you know.
This summer sees year two of our formal work experience programmes, in Birmingham (18 – 22 May) and Hinckley (22 – 26 June). We will also be launching our very first all-female work experience programme in Hitchin, as we continue to expand our work experience offering.
Throughout this week, we will share case studies of people who have joined Cadent through various routes, and how their chosen route has benefitted them personally. It’s important that we reflect on the range of opportunities available to join Cadent or other companies; after all, everyone has a different learning style and different motivations. Whoever you are, there is a career path waiting for you to take hold of.
Martin Rimmer
Chief People Officer
Careers with Cadent
We have lots of exciting careers opportunities at Cadent, which you can find out about by clicking the link below.