RS Industrial Services partners with Middlesbrough College to shape the next generation of engineers

Posted on 08 January 2025

Teesside-based RS Industrial Services has announced that it has become a sponsor employer on Middlesbrough College’s new TTE Engineering Scholarship Programme.

Designed to bridge the gap between education and industry through nurturing the engineers of the future, the pioneering programme will be delivered through a blend of classroom learning at Middlesbrough College with practical, on-site training.

A total of 40 students have been named in the first cohort of Middlesbrough College Group’s TTE Engineering Scholarship Programme. Under the scheme, the Level 3 engineering students have each been matched with one of more than 20 top companies who have backed the programme.

As part of the initiative, RS Industrial Services is helping to train two second year students, Harvey Hunt and William Dawson, who will gain invaluable hands-on experience from the firm’s engineering team. The two students will contribute to projects, shadow engineers and gradually take on responsibilities that align with their T Level studies in Mechatronics at Middlesbrough College. Furthermore, the experience of working in an engineering environment at RS Industrial Services, coupled with mentoring from time-served engineers, will equip Harvey and William with the practical skills and confidence they need to embark on their chosen careers.

Mark Cawley, CEO at RS Industrial Services commented: “We are incredibly proud to support this pioneering initiative, as we firmly believe that investing in people is the key to building a sustainable future.

“Partnering with Middlesbrough College on this scholarship programme allows us to directly support and invest in young people who are passionate about pursuing a career in engineering and gives us the perfect opportunity to allow our experienced engineers to develop too. 

“By mentoring Harvey and William, our engineers can enhance their own skills, gaining leadership and coaching experience as they share their knowledge and expertise. 

“We see this partnership as an opportunity to not only give back to our community but also to help close the skills gap in the engineering industry. By supporting students like William and Harvey, we’re shaping a brighter future for engineering; one that’s built on passion, knowledge and opportunity which aligns perfectly with our vision, mission and values.”

With premises in Billingham and Gateshead, RS Industrial Services is recognised as one of the UK’s premier independent suppliers of material handling and engineering products. Its comprehensive offering spans three core divisions: Cranes & Lifting; Training & Development; and Industrial & Safety Supplies.

Find out more information on RS Industrial Services here