BUSINESSPEOPLE across Wales have gained exclusive behind-the-scenes access to JCB Transmissions to learn about its new hydrogen generator technology, workplace culture, and future developments.

Organised by the Institute of Directors (IoD) North Wales, attendees toured the facility in Wrexham and received expert insight into the company’s role in manufacturing components for carbon efficient machinery from JCB operations director Craig Weeks.

Guests were equipped with professional leadership knowledge as Craig shared his career journey with the multinational manufacturing business, as well as highlighting key decisions made to increase business growth and efficiency.

He also revealed practical ways the firm invests in its workforce by utilising training opportunities provided by the North East Wales Skills Academy (NEWSA) and Gatewen Training Services.

David Roberts, chair of North Wales IoD, believes the event spotlighted JCB’s innovation and contribution toward Wales’ net zero by 2050 target.

He said: “From its latest hydrogen generator technology to its production of gearboxes, axles, and transmissions systems, it’s evident that JCB Transmissions is paving the way as a leader in creative, cutting-edge renewable technology.

“Moreover, I think the experience gave guests the chance to understand ways in which they could make more informed investments and the long-term benefits of upskilling members of their respective teams.

“Seeing business leaders and directors attend from across Wales was also very encouraging and I hope they feel more empowered to excel in their industries.”

Speaking about Craig, an IoD North Wales Skills Development award winner, David continued: “I think there is a lot to learn from his leadership.

“His careful, considered allocation of company resources, alongside his career path from axle and gearbox technician to operations director, demonstrates great creative direction and tenacity.

“Overall, building a supportive and welcoming culture in any firm is essential for longevity and it’s something I think JCB Transmissions showcased to all attendees.”

To become an IoD volunteer, contact David Roberts on 07899 910 293.

For more information and to view upcoming events on the IoD in North Wales, visit www.iod.com/events-community/regions/wales

A NEYLAND man has pleaded guilty to making 20 indecent images of children — including seven of the most serious Category A images — at his home address.

As a result of the pleas entered before Haverfordwest magistrates on Tuesday (June 17), JAMIE DAVIES, 46, is now a registered sex offender.

Davies admitted making seven Category A images, ten Category B images and three Category C images between January 28 and November 4, 2021, at his home on Springfield Avenue, Neyland.

He denies further allegations of engaging in sexual communication with children by sending sexually motivated messages to girls under the age of 16 with the intention of eliciting sexual responses. He also denies causing or inciting girls to engage in sexual activity — including children under the age of 13 — and two further charges involving penetration.

The Crown alleges that all offences took place at Davies’ home address over a prolonged period of time.

“A phone was recovered from the defendant’s pocket,” said Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan. “He was interrogated, and there were clear conversations between the defendant and young people who were aged between seven and 17. Sexual activities took place between both parties.”

Given the seriousness of the allegations, magistrates declined jurisdiction and the matter will now proceed to Swansea Crown Court, where proceedings will begin on July 18.

Davies was released on unconditional bail.

Training federation warns of sharp fall in apprentice starts across Wales

THE ORGANISATION representing training providers across Wales has called on the Welsh Government to prioritise apprenticeships and skills funding in the wake of a major investment announcement in England.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed in the UK Government’s spending review last week that £1.2 billion per year will be committed to boosting apprenticeships and training opportunities for more than one million young people in England.

With the Treasury allocating around £23 billion to the Welsh Government, the National Training Federation for Wales (NTFW) is now urging ministers in Cardiff Bay to invest a greater share in workforce development and expand the nation’s apprenticeship programme.

The call comes amid growing concern over a decline in new apprenticeship starts in Wales. A recent statistical release from Medr, the national regulator for tertiary education, revealed 1,880 fewer apprenticeships were started between August 2023 and January 2024 compared to the same period a year earlier.

The drop, equivalent to a 15% reduction, has disproportionately affected critical sectors. Construction, seen as vital to future infrastructure delivery, recorded a 26% fall in starts. Health and Social Care, essential to NHS Wales staffing, saw a 10.5% decline.

NTFW says the decline is partly due to the failure to replace EU structural funds lost post-Brexit, which had previously supported skills and training initiatives across the country.

Despite the funding challenges, Wales continues to deliver one of the highest apprenticeship completion rates in the UK — 74% on average, compared with 61% in England and 62% in Northern Ireland.

The NTFW argues that apprenticeships are key to three major policy areas: economic growth, social mobility, and the sustainability of the healthcare system. According to the Centre for Economics and Business Research, doubling apprenticeship investment over the next Senedd term could add £3.4 billion in lifetime earnings across Wales over the next three decades.

Lisa Mytton, strategic director at the NTFW, said: “The Welsh Government could achieve crucial economic, health and education priorities by investing more in apprenticeships and replacing the lost European funding.

“Greater investment will create pathways for people of all backgrounds — whether starting their careers or reskilling — and will strengthen industries that are essential to Wales’ long-term prosperity.

“Large employers operating on both sides of the border are already questioning why opportunities are growing in England but declining in Wales. Without urgent action, we risk falling behind.”

The call to action follows what the federation described as a “positive and constructive” meeting last Thursday between NTFW board members and the Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership, Jack Sargeant MS. The Minister was said to be receptive to the concerns raised and acknowledged the wider economic impact of a strong apprenticeship programme.

Photo caption:
Lisa Mytton: NTFW director calls on Welsh Government to match UK apprenticeship funding (Pic: Supplied).