Leading international distributor of power systems, hazardous area equipment and process heating solutions, Thorne & Derrick International, is marking its 40th anniversary this year by celebrating the role that apprenticeships have played in shaping the company’s success.

Since its founding in 1985, Thorne & Derrick International has grown from a small regional supplier into an internationally recognised business with customers in over 70 countries. The company has remained committed to investing in the next generation of talent through apprenticeship programmes.

Managing Director Richard Derrick says: “We’ve always believed that our people are the foundation of our success. By offering apprenticeships, we not only support young individuals in launching their careers, but also ensure that we have skilled, passionate professionals driving innovation and excellence across our operations.”

The apprenticeship programme at Thorne & Derrick International combines on-the-job training with formal education, allowing participants to earn qualifications while contributing to real-world projects. The company works closely with Gateshead City Council and New College Durham training providers to provide programmes in customer service, business administration, sales executive and warehousing roles.

The company’s first apprentice, Morgan Gent, started in 2018 as a customer service apprentice and is now a full-time sales engineer, travelling the country to meet customers and provide technical solutions.

Morgan said: “The support I’ve received from the management team and colleagues since the first day I joined Thorne & Derrick at 18 years old has been incredible. I feel very much part of the team and am actively encouraged to continue learning. I would highly recommend joining an apprenticeship programme as it gives you a chance to grow in confidence, develop valuable skills and, here, I’m feel very much part of the family.”

Looking ahead, the company reaffirms its commitment to the development of young people, providing skills training, ensuring that future generations benefit from the same opportunities that have fuelled its own journey over the past 40 years.

Find out more about Thorne & Derrick International here: https://www.thorneandderrick.com/

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