Training provider shortlisted for dedication to diversity, equity and inclusion
MTC Training has been announced as part of the prestigious shortlist in this year’s Lloyds Bank British Business Excellence Awards 2023, an elite, cross-sector awards programme for businesses of all shapes and sizes.
The skills arm of the Manufacturing Technology Centre, based in Coventry, will go up against nine other finalists in the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I) Champion of the Year category. The category aims to acknowledge and reward businesses who have successfully driven initiatives to support their workplace and foster a culture of respect and fairness.
As one of the UK’s leading engineering apprenticeship providers, MTC Training’s mission is to create the next generation of engineering talent while upskilling and reskilling existing workforces from its three bases in Coventry, Oxford and Liverpool.
It positions DE&I at its core through a host of activities including the promotion of STEM professions and an enhanced enrichment programme for its learners. Internally, the MTC Training is extending its Board representation to include greater levels of diversity, as well as providing its employees with a range of benefits that support equity and inclusion, such as flexible working, smart holidays and private healthcare insurance.
David Grailey, Managing Director at MTC Training, acknowledged that while the engineering world is challenged by traditional stereotypes, the announcement is a reminder of how the training provider is making strides in the sector:
“We are so pleased to have been announced as a finalist in contention for this year’s DE&I Award. With the support of our partners, we are continually exploring new ways to enhance accessibility of our training programmes and centres. This is particularly pertinent to the engineering sector, which has historically lacked diversity and faced improper stereotypes of what an engineer traditionally looks like. We are committed to inspiring people from all communities to consider engineering as a life-long career through our outreach programmes and support to applicants, making it more appealing than it ever has been. This shortlisting is fantastic recognition of our colleagues’ work towards creating a more diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace for colleagues, training facility for learners and industry for the future of UK manufacturing.”
Sarah Austin, Founder & Director of the Lloyds Bank British Business Excellence Awards, commented on the announcement:
"As the UK's unrivalled celebration of business brilliance, resilience, and innovation - the Lloyds Bank British Business Excellence Awards takes centre stage – and this year is no exception. The anticipation is electrifying as we gear up for the grand event at the glamorous Grosvenor Hotel.
"Our excitement levels have hit the roof as we've witnessed a spectacular level of submissions across a wide range of dynamic industries – but with a real trend across the energy, recruitment, wellbeing, food & drink, and tech sectors, highlighting just how much the UK business landscape is thriving.
"Kudos to each and every finalist who has made the shortlist - your entries have truly left us in awe of your extraordinary talent and dedication, setting the bar high for what it means to be a champion in the business world. You've made us stand up and take notice, and we can't wait to celebrate your remarkable achievements."
Alongside the other finalists, MTC Training will undergo another stage of judging before the winner is announced at the awards ceremony on Tuesday 14th November 2023 at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London.