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Stephen Crabb: "Apprenticeships help to create a world-class, highly skilled workforce."

Welsh Secretary Stephen Crabb today (9 March) welcomed Newbridge firm Axiom’s record profits, on a company visit to mark the start of National Apprenticeship Week.

Axiom – a leading electronics manufacturer - today announced record operating profits and turnover of £34.62 million for 2014, an increase of over £6 million on the previous year.

The company has recently committed to doubling the size of its apprenticeship scheme so it is the ideal Welsh business to visit at the start of National Apprenticeship Week.

National Apprenticeship Week is a time to celebrate apprenticeships and the positive impact they have on people, businesses and the wider economy.

Welsh Secretary Stephen Crabb said:

Axiom’s latest figures show that high technology manufacturing within Wales is alive and well - accounting for over 15% of the Welsh economy - and the sector has an impressive track record on apprenticeships.

Apprenticeships equip people of all ages with the skills, self-confidence and drive they need to thrive within their chosen field – helping to create a world-class, highly skilled workforce.

Business leaders of the future are just as likely to come from the factory floor as the university lecture theatre or business school.

Here at Axiom I have seen the difference that apprenticeships can make when it comes to improving skills, securing investment and growing the Welsh economy.