Apprenticeships are often viewed as a route into work for school leavers. But George Appleby (pictured above) is proof they can be much more than that.

The 24-year-old is ceramic mould manufacturing manager at Castings Technology, a leading UK manufacturer of complex high-integrity titanium and steel castings with 103 employees. He started his career at the South Yorkshire company as a manufacturing apprentice at 16.

Now he is completing his second apprenticeship, this time in leadership and management, highlighting how Castings Technology is using apprenticeships to retain talent, build capability and develop future leaders in response to industry skills shortages.

"I'm a very hands-on person and learn better through practical work," said Mr Appleby, from Sheffield. "The technical skill is knowing the job and knowing the process. The people skills is how you relay that information. The leadership apprenticeship has taught me how to adapt to different situations and I've been told I'm a lot more confident when presenting to people."

Mr Appleby’s progression reflects a wider approach at Castings Technology. Abbie Green joined as an apprentice methods engineer in 2019 and has completed four apprenticeships while progressing to lead process engineer. She is currently working towards a BEng degree apprenticeship in manufacturing technology.

"Each apprenticeship built upon the previous one, allowing me to develop a progressive and integrated skill set," said Ms Green. "Apprenticeships are suitable for all ages over 16, whether that be school leavers looking to enter a career path, or experienced workers looking to up-skill.”

The company is sharing its approach as part of National Apprenticeship Week, a week-long celebration from February 9-15 that brings together businesses and apprentices across the UK to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make.

Castings Technology is investing £18 million in expanded manufacturing capabilities to meet soaring demand from the global aerospace industry. The company is creating 20 new jobs this year and commissioning Europe's first new titanium casting facility in years, a 200,000 sq ft Sheffield site opening in late 2026.

Castings Technology currently has 10 apprentices and plans to offer at least two further apprenticeships in 2026. The company partners with AMRC Training Centre and UTC Sheffield for apprenticeships and training.

Of the existing workforce, 13 employees progressed through apprenticeship programmes, including three directors. Castings Technology uses apprenticeships both for entry-level recruitment and leadership development, with staff completing programmes ranging from technical skills to Level 3 leadership qualifications.

Shaun Smith, chief commercial officer, said: “The fact that three of our directors – myself, managing director Richard Cook and chief operating officer Ryan Longden – started as apprentices shows what's possible. In an industry facing significant skills shortages, using apprenticeships to develop and retain talent is essential for growth."