At Simmal Ltd, a leading aluminium supplier, we’re proud to celebrate T-Level Week – a time dedicated to showcasing the transformative impact of T-Level qualifications. These innovative courses are designed to bridge the gap between education and industry, equipping students with the skills and experience they need to thrive in engineering careers.

As a family-run business with over 40 years of experience in aluminium and engineering in Preston, we understand the importance of investing in the future. T-Levels provide a unique opportunity for businesses like ours to collaborate with education providers, helping to shape the next generation of skilled professionals while strengthening our industry as a whole.

Simmal Ltd’s Commitment to Education: Jack’s Journey

Our involvement in education and training began long before T-Levels, with a deep-rooted belief in nurturing talent and supporting our "Simmal family." One of our earliest success stories is Jack Davis, who joined Simmal Ltd in 2015 as our first apprentice. Jack is the son of a recently retired employee, and taking him on felt like a natural extension of our commitment to supporting both our team and their families.

Jack began his journey by enrolling in a Level 2 Performing Engineering Operations apprenticeship, which he successfully completed in 2017. Recognising his potential and enthusiasm, we encouraged Jack to progress to a Level 3 Engineering Technician apprenticeship. Over the next two years, Jack honed his skills and knowledge, completing the qualification in 2019.

Jack’s dedication and hard work didn’t go unnoticed. After becoming a skilled Machine Operator, he was promoted to Production Supervisor in 2021. Today, he oversees a team of four employees and supervises seven machines, playing a critical role in our aluminium machining operations.

Jack’s story exemplifies why we believe so strongly in investing in young talent. By providing opportunities for learning and growth, we help individuals achieve their potential while strengthening the future of engineering and manufacturing.

Building Careers at Simmal Ltd: Dan’s Success Story

Dan Carter’s journey with us is another testament to our commitment to fostering talent. Dan joined Simmal Ltd in 2017, embarking on a Level 3 Engineering Technician apprenticeship in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Machining. From the outset, Dan demonstrated a passion for learning and a drive to excel.

In 2020, after successfully completing his apprenticeship, Dan was employed as a Machine Operator, quickly establishing himself as a valuable member of the team. His leadership potential and technical expertise earned him a promotion to Production Supervisor in 2021. In this role, he oversaw six employees and ten machines, managing operations with professionalism and precision.

Dan’s upward trajectory continued, and in 2024, he was promoted to Production Manager. Today, he manages a team of eight employees and supervises 11 aluminium processing machines, playing a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth running of our machining operations. Beyond his technical responsibilities, Dan actively supports the next generation of learners, mentoring both T-Level and apprenticeship students and sharing his wealth of experience.

Supporting Future Talent: Luke’s Pathway to Success

Luke Wharton joined us during the 2021-2022 academic year as one of our first work placement learners, while he was completing his Level 3 BTEC Engineering course. During his time at Simmal Ltd, Luke demonstrated a strong aptitude for engineering and quickly became a valued member of the team.

Impressed by his talent and enthusiasm, we offered Luke a permanent position in the summer of 2022 after he successfully completed his college course. He embarked on a Level 3 Engineering Technician – Machining apprenticeship and is now in his third year of the programme. Luke continues to develop his CAD skills and knowledge, contributing significantly to our CADCAM 5-axis CNC operations while preparing for a bright future in engineering.

A New Generation of Talent: Jacob’s Story

Jacob Hersee is the latest addition to our team, joining us as a T-Level work placement student during the 2022-2023 academic year, pursuing a T-Level in Design Engineering. Over two years,

Jacob gained valuable hands-on experience with us, applying his classroom learning to real-world engineering challenges. His enthusiasm, skill, and commitment made a strong impression, and when he completed his T-Level course in the summer of 2024, we were thrilled to offer him a permanent role.

In September 2024, Jacob began a Level 3 Machining Technician apprenticeship, marking the next step in his career journey. By combining formal education with practical training, Jacob is building the skills needed to excel in his role while contributing to the continued success of Simmal Ltd.

Investing in Tomorrow’s Innovators: Thomas and Harrison’s Journey

This year, we’re proud to work with Thomas Hesketh and Harrison Fishwick, two promising students currently enrolled in the Design Engineering T-Level course. Thomas and Harrison are gaining invaluable practical experience through their work placements with us. These placements allow them to complement their academic studies with hands-on learning, tackling real-world engineering challenges in a professional environment.

Why Simmal Ltd Supports Young Learners

The decision to invest in young learners stems from both practical needs and a commitment to the future of the engineering and manufacturing industries. When we established our engineering facility in Preston to support our successful aluminium stockholder business, we recognised the need for skilled and enthusiastic individuals. Supporting the families of our employees and contributing to the local Preston community were equally important factors.

We found that candidates in the recruitment pool often lacked the specialised skills needed for our niche offerings in aluminium machining and particularly in machining aluminium extruded products. Training fresh talent to adopt these capabilities became essential to our success. Recognising the wider impact this would have on the UK engineering sector, we partnered with local colleges in Preston to support education pathways, including BTEC and T-Level courses in engineering training.

By offering work placements and apprenticeships, we help bridge the gap between classroom learning and the realities of industry. While our primary aim is to support the wider sector, we also see it as a bonus when we discover talented individuals who become part of the Simmal Ltd team.

Join Us in Supporting the Next Generation of Engineers in Preston

At Simmal Ltd, we’re proud to play a part in shaping the future of engineering and manufacturing in Preston by supporting young learners. Through apprenticeships, work placements, and partnerships with local colleges, we’re bridging the gap between classroom learning and industry, ensuring that the skills needed for tomorrow’s challenges are developed today.

As a trusted aluminium supplier in Preston, we invite businesses, educators, and individuals to join us in championing the importance of education pathways like T-Levels. Together, we can inspire and equip the next generation of engineers, securing the long-term success of our industries.

If you’d like to learn more about our work with young learners or explore opportunities to partner with Simmal Ltd, your aluminium materials and engineering training experts in Preston, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch with us today and let’s build a brighter future for engineering and manufacturing together.

This initiative has not gone unnoticed, with Simmal's efforts recently highlighted by The Independent. The article praised Simmal's commitment to addressing skills shortages through T-Level placements and upskilling opportunities, showcasing the positive impact of these programmes on both the business and its employees. This recognition underscores Simmal's dedication to supporting the next generation of engineers and manufacturers in Preston and beyond.