Nordic helps spark new career paths

A Teesside engineering company is supporting a new programme to boost youth employment in the region.

Stockton-based Nordic, a fast-growing manufacturing and engineering specialist, has signed up to the Youth Guarantee Trailblazer programme, with managing director Mark Roddy encouraging other firms to follow suit. 

The scheme offers fully funded work tasters and paid placements for young people aged 18 to 21 who are not in education, employment or training (NEET).

Mark says Nordic has already helped hundreds of local trainees into employment, most recently delivering an intensive welding programme for 24 participants, many of whom have gone on to work at the SeAH Wind monopile facility.

Mark said: “Getting hands on experience in the world of work is crucial – and we’re very pleased to be involved in the Trailblazer programme to get more young people through our doors.

“Not everyone fits into a neat box in how they learn or find their calling in the world. 

“We’re really passionate about giving people a chance to find their feet, unlock their potential and build a career whether that’s with us or with other employers in the region.

“We have first-hand experience in seeing people grow and develop when they’re given the right opportunity and environment.  

“That’s why we’re proud to be supporting even more talented young people through the Trailblazer programme.

“I’d encourage other companies to get involved, see the level of support available and just see how far our young people can develop whilst adding real value in the business.

“The Trailblazer scheme offers employers an opportunity to develop the future workforce while accessing fully funded support to bring young talent into their business.

“The programme covers the cost of paid placements and provides structured support throughout. 

“It’s a chance to make a real difference – while discovering fresh ideas and future employees in the process.”

The Trailblazer project, backed by up to £5 million in funding and supported by almost 100 Tees Valley businesses, is designed to remove barriers to employment and help young people access real work experience. 

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen added: “Time and time again we hear the same thing – young people just need that first opportunity to get their foot in the door. 

“That’s what this Trailblazer is all about.

“It’s fantastic to see Nordic stepping up once again, backing our young people and putting real weight behind giving them a proper shot at a career.

“We’ve secured this funding to give businesses the tools to help shape the future – now I want to see even more firms getting involved, just like Nordic.

“Our region’s got the talent – we need to do everything we can to unlock it and give our young people the chance to show what they can do.”

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen and Mark Roddy at Nordic

Councillor Lisa Evans, leader of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and TVCA cabinet member for education, employment and skills, added: “It’s good to see this fully funded, Government backed scheme giving school leavers more access to work experience opportunities. 

“I’m really proud that a Stockton firm, Nordic, is backing our young people to move into work, providing invaluable chances to gain vital work experience.

“I’d echo Mark’s calls for more companies across the Tees Valley to get involved. 

“If you’d like to find out how your company can be involved, please get in touch.”

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