Luke tools up bright career prospects

Luke McMorris, 18, has been taken on as apprentice toolmaker at precision tooling and injection moulding company Omega Group. He is also working towards completing his HNC in mechanical engineering at Teesside University.

Luke already has a Level 3 diploma in engineering from Hartlepool College of Further Education and is now developing his career in manufacturing at Omega, which was formed from the partnership between Blyth and Hartlepool-based Omega Plastics and Washington’s Signal Plastics.

Omega Group managing director Dave Crone said: “Luke will gain important skills while he is with us as well as bringing new ideas, creativity and youthful enthusiasm to the workforce.

“Apprenticeships aren’t just for the larger companies. They are a cost-effective way for smaller, highly specialised firms like us to train the workforce to a high standard and make the business more competitive.”

Luke said: “I’ve always been a practical person and I’m good with my hands. I was looking to get a job that would allow me to learn a trade, and this fitted the bill perfectly.

“Apprenticeships give you the chance to study for qualifications that are valued by employers – and you earn a wage at the same time.”