Major Equipment Intl Ltd, an Irish agricultural machinery manufacturer based in Co. Mayo, has this week announced the launch of the Major Apprenticeship Programme 2017.

The programme is run in conjunction with Solas (the Further Education and Training Authority) and Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board.

There are three options which will begin in autumn of this year: Mechanical Automation and Maintenance Fitting; Sheet Metalworking; and Metal Fabrication. 

For each of the options, the minimum required age is 16 years while the minimum educational requirements are five pass grades in the Junior Cert or the successful completion of an approved “Pre-Apprenticeship” course or three years of work experience (gained over 16 years of age) in a relevant designated industrial activity (as deemed acceptable by Solas).

The total duration of the apprenticeships is a minimum of four years, provided all phases are successfully completed.

When the programme has been finished successfully the apprentice is awarded a Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Craft – Mechanical Automation and Maintenance Fitting, Craft – Sheet Metalworking or Craft – Metal Fabrication (depending on the apprenticeship undertaken).

The programme is comprised of on-the-job training with the employer, with a duration length of about three years, and off-the-job training in a facility that amounts to almost a year.

The apprenticeship is made up of seven phases: two six-month and two 12-month phases with the employer along with a 20-week phase and two 11-week phases at the training facility. 

Major Equipment Intl Ltd was formed in 1976 and is a manufacturer and international exporter of a broad range of agricultural, amenity and site equipment.

apprenticeship

Image source: Shane Casey

Products manufactured include grass cutting machinery for agricultural and municipal use, slurry handling equipment and industrial tankers. In addition to its headquarters in Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo, Major also has branches in the UK and the Netherlands.

Application forms can be downloaded from Major’s website. For more information email Ronan Denning at: [email protected] or call: 094-9630572.

apprenticeship

Image source: Shane Casey