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ELB Partners is training local talent to overcome its HGV skills shortage and attract a new generation of drivers.
The firm has partnered with EP Training Services to tap into a latent talent pool and get enthusiastic would-be truckers behind the wheel.
It has already helped former teacher Sam Cates to gain his Class 2 HGV licence after he joined the company in November 2020.
He has also acquired a crane truck licence and will be undergoing training for his Class 1 licence next year.
Cates said: “I had been working in primary school while gaining my teaching degree; however, after funding for my role was removed, I turned to something I love – driving.
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“HGV training can be expensive so being able to do it through ELB Partners has given me the freedom of learning, training and enjoying life on the road behind the wheel of an 18-tonne lorry, without the financial burden.”
Peter Eason, ELB Partners MD, said it developed a new approach to driver recruitment after it was impacted by the HGV driver shortage: “We’ve found that there are a lot of would-be HGV drivers out there with huge potential, but they can’t afford to invest in the training without the guarantee of a job at the end of it,” he explained.
“By working with EP Training, we are able to recruit the right people based on their interest and enthusiasm for the role and provide the training they need to gain their HGV licences.”
Sean Pargeter, director at EP Training Services said there were few hauliers that would take a chance on a newbie, but ELB was different: “Peter is more interested in those with the right attitude and aptitude, as opposed to having the mandatory two years’ experience,” Pargeter said.
“It’s great for EP Training Services as we can offer newly-qualified drivers the chance to get on the ladder and work with ELB Partners.”
