The Locksmith Journal Jan-Feb 2016 - Issue 42 | Page 19

INDUSTRYNEWS • 19 PROUD SPONSORS OF THIS PAGE ASSA ABLOY addresses skills for the future at mla apprentice open day »»ASSA ABLOY HOSTED A SUCCESSFUL locksmith apprentice open day at its Portobello site in the West Midlands, as part of its commitment to the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) apprenticeship scheme and future of the locksmithing industry. Launched last year by Skills for Security and the MLA in partnership with ASSA ABLOY the apprentice scheme is designed to professionalise the industry by focusing on the development of skills amongst the next generation of locksmiths. Equipping them with the practical skills and knowledge needed to not only thrive in the industry but also encourage future growth, the scheme has already received industrywide support in its foundation year. As part of delivering this objective, ASSA ABLOY played host to 10 apprentices from across the UK, all of whom are signed up to the Locksmith Level 2 Apprenticeship. The full day, which covered both practical skills and an understanding of the marketplace and product development, received high praise from those who attended. Steve Ross from ASSA ABLOY and part of the team who delivered the training day, explains: “We based the ope