ExMesh - Metal Security Solutions

First UK fencing manufacturer to be awarded Secured By Design status

Built with more than a century of manufacturing experience

Bespoke solutions tailored to your project

The Expanded Metal Company welcomes three new apprentices

We have recently taken on three new apprentices as part of our ongoing commitment to developing our future workforce.

Thomas Harvey, age 17 and Daniel Wearmouth, age 18, from Hartlepool have joined our team as apprentice machine setters, while Ben Job, age 21, from Newcastle, has joined the company in the position of apprentice tool setter. They will support in the manufacture of metal mesh products.

Both, Daniel and Thomas attend East Durham College where they are working towards completing an NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Performing Engineering Operations before moving onto a Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship. Ben, who also attends East Durham College, is studying to obtain a Diploma in Mechanical Engineering.

Combined with classroom-based learning, the apprenticeship programme will help Daniel, Thomas and Ben gain hands-on experience and skills at our 25,000 sqm site in Hartlepool.

Commenting on his apprenticeship, Thomas Harvey, said: “Prior to joining The Expanded Metal Company I studied Welding Fabrication at Hartlepool College of Further Education. This apprenticeship provided an opportunity to further develop the skills I gained through the course. So far, I’ve learned a lot about how to operate the specialist machinery used in the manufacturing process here.”

Daniel Wearmouth added: “We learn something new every day as we work on hundreds of products on a daily basis. I want to have a career in engineering and The Expanded Metal Company has provided me with a fantastic opportunity to take the first step towards this.”

Commenting on the apprenticeship programme, Philip Astley, managing director of The Expanded Metal Company, said: “We have decades of expertise in expanded metal mesh manufacturing here at our facility in Hartlepool – and through the apprenticeship programme, we are giving young people from the area an opportunity to learn specialist manufacturing skills.

“The apprenticeship programme is a vital component in our workforce development strategy and is helping us to build for the future.

“I am delighted to welcome Thomas, Daniel and Ben to the team and look forward to seeing them thrive at The Expanded Metal Company.”