Wildanet has celebrated the success of its first cohort of apprentices at a special graduation event ceremony, marking a major milestone for the company’s Technical Training Academy, which was launched in 2023 to train the next generation of digital engineers and support staff.
Family and friends joined apprentices for the gathering at its Westbourne House headquarters, in Liskeard, hosted by Wildanet CEO Helen Wylde-Archibald, Wildanet Chief People Officer Julie-anne Sunderland, Academy Head Ian Carmichael and guest of honour Anna Gelderd, MP for south east Cornwall.
Graduates were awarded certificates in recognition of their achievements, with some having already been nominated for industry awards.
The event also featured a tour of the Academy and demonstrations of the fibre engineering techniques the apprentices have mastered during their training.
Five apprentices took part in the company’s Telecoms Field Operative Level 2 apprenticeship programme, developed in partnership with Truro and Penwith College, with others studying for a range of management, logistics and finance-based courses supporting their careers with the company.
Sunderland said: “The Academy’s first graduates have shown great dedication, and the Academy has played a crucial role in providing vital skills for the company and Cornwall’s digital future.
“We are not only upskilling our workforce but also supporting Cornwall’s wider economic growth.”
Gelderd added: “Investing in skills and creating local opportunities is essential for our communities, and businesses like Wildanet are leading the way in workforce development and ensuring young people have access to career-building training right here at home.”
The Academy has already had an overwhelming response to future programmes, including 76 new applicants eager to secure a place on its next engineering apprenticeship.
The company is also looking at how it can extend its training offer, supporting the wider supply chain and local communities.
