Joloda Hydraroll’s apprenticeship programme provides engineering opportunities to young people in Anglesey

Joloda Hydraroll offers three apprenticeships to young people in Anglesey in partnership with Coleg Menai.

Investing in the future of engineering talent in Anglesey is an important focus for Joloda Hydraroll, which has a major manufacturing facility on the Welsh Isle.

The company designs and manufactures automated and manual loading and unloading solutions, which are used to move freight on and off of vehicles more efficiently. Much of this happens at its site in Anglesey, which is a worldwide centre of excellence for welding, fabrication and painting, and the UK base for modifying HGV trailers for the home market.

In conjunction with local college Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, Joloda Hydraroll has run an apprenticeship programme for young people interested in a career in engineering at the manufacturing facility for more than 10 years. This year marks the company’s biggest intake yet, with three apprenticeships available to young people on the island.

The programme has supported an increasing number of apprentices in Anglesey, many of whom continue to work with Joloda Hydraroll today.

One such success story is Cian Taylor, who is six months into completing his Degree Apprenticeship in Mechanical Engineering Systems with support from Joloda Hydraroll. The Degree Apprenticeship is a combination of work and study towards a Bachelor’s degree.

Cian started his journey as an engineering apprentice at Joloda Hydraroll in 2020 as a fitter, which he completed in 2022. From there, Cian progressed to his HNC award, which he passed in 2024 with distinction. This led to the opportunity to pursue a higher education qualification.

Completing the HND award will not only enhance Cian’s practical skills and theoretical knowledge but open up new opportunities for him to pursue a managerial position within Joloda Hydraroll.

Cian is motivated by aspirations to travel to other global offices of the brand. However, his interest in engineering wasn’t piqued until he was able to explore it as one of his options at college.

Reflecting on his journey into engineering, Cian said: “When looking at the list of subjects I could choose from at the age of 14 or 15, engineering was the only one that really stood out to me. I also liked the idea of being able to earn while still learning and going to college one afternoon a week. However, it wasn’t until I started my apprenticeship and gained the practical experience that I knew how much I enjoyed it.”

Cian says it is important to introduce young people to a range of career paths and provide them with the freedom to explore their interests early on. Apprenticeships are also an alternative to traditional education paths that are more inclusive of different learning styles.

“I have grown up a lot since taking on my apprenticeship. I didn’t always feel motivated while at school, but securing my apprenticeship gave me a lot of drive to make the most of this opportunity,” he explained.

“I’m a kinesthetic learner, so being able to gain practical skills in the workplace was a perfect option for me, where I felt able to reach my full potential. Balancing work and study is never easy, but I have proven to myself that I can do it. My graduation last summer was a good feeling.”

Cian’s advice for anyone considering an apprenticeship is to go for it. “Apprenticeships offer you the best of both worlds: you’re able to gain knowledge through a structured education while still working and developing your skills in whatever industry you desire. Show dedication and determination to grow and develop, and believe that you can do it. A lot of manufacturing companies are looking to recruit young people right now.”

Anglesey is one of seven local authority areas in Wales that saw a decline in its population between the census of 2021 and 2011, while the average age of residents increased. Despite wanting to stay in the area, many young people leave to find employment, which has resulted in a steady trend of net migration out of Anglesey for those aged 15 to 29.

Eurfon Davies, Engineering Programme Area Manager at Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, said: “The labour market for young people in North Wales is continually evolving, with apprenticeships playing a vital role in providing career pathways and addressing regional skills shortages. In response to economic challenges and a growing need for specialised training in manufacturing, it’s fantastic to see Joloda Hydraroll partnering with Grŵp Llandrillo Menai to create impactful apprenticeship programmes for our young people.

“With industry collaboration, these apprenticeship programmes offer a blend of practical skills and academic learning. This partnership ensures that apprentices are equipped with relevant expertise, enhancing their employability and contributing to the region’s economic growth.

“Investment in apprenticeship training reflects a commitment to the local community and the development of a skilled workforce. Through strategic partnerships like these, the future of the region’s young people is secured, ensuring a strong talent pipeline for years to come.”

For companies like Joloda Hydraroll, it’s important to invest in providing local opportunities for young people like Cian who represent the future of the company. In 2024, across its Anglesey and Liverpool production sites, Joloda Hydraroll hired eight apprentices. It was shortlisted in the ‘Employer of the Year’ category of the Grŵp Llandrillo Menai North Wales Work Based Learning Awards 2025.

Cian’s line manager is Team Leader Dieter Griffiths. He commented: “Cian is a fantastic addition to the team; he is a testament to the value of Joloda Hydraroll’s apprenticeship programme and the huge amount of talent within it. Since joining us four years ago, his achievements have been outstanding, both in his academic and practical work. His passion, enthusiasm, and fresh perspective are exactly what we look for, and without the apprenticeship programme, we wouldn’t have had the pleasure of working with him. Cian’s commitment and drive reflect the kind of young talent that will lead our company forward as we continue to grow.”

The deadline for applications to the 2025 apprenticeship programme is 1st August. Interested candidates can find out more information by emailing: hello@joloda.comThe post Joloda Hydraroll’s apprenticeship programme provides engineering opportunities to young people in Anglesey first appeared on Warehouse & Logistics News.