Employer Profiles: Matt's Employer

Darren Snodgrass

1. Allowing an employee to participate in Worldskills/ MTC obviously requires a significant commitment from yourself. Can you explain your reasons for supporting such involvement?

We like to have our employees multi-skilled, to be able to solve problems a little differently. Worldskills provides them with skills useful to us and allows the employees to better themselves.

2. How do you think your employee's participation in Worldskills/ MTC has impacted upon their work practices?

It is hard to say really. To work out which bit of knowledge came from where is difficult. Certainly there has been no negative effect. It’s just hard to quantify, but I feel it has been beneficial.

3. The Manufacturing Team Challenge allows a dual focus on technical ability and soft skills, such as communication and teamwork. Have you noticed improvements in your employee's soft skills and what impact does that have on the workplace?

Definitely. Obviously, the MTC is very strongly team-oriented and I believe it’s been helpful. It is hard to say what’s the natural maturing of a young engineer, and what developments are specific to this [Worldskills]. It has appeared beneficial.

4. Would you recommend Worldskills/ MTC to other/ future employees? Why?

Definitely. It’s something I would have been into myself a few years ago. Without a doubt, it is a good opportunity.

5. Is there anything else you would like to add about Worldskills/ MTC or your employee's involvement?

I think it’s a really wonderful idea, a great opportunity for people. As an employer, our commitment hasn’t been huge as Matthew has been making up most of the time spent on Worldskills work. We do allow him a certain amount of time for MTC, but it hasn’t really impacted.

Personally, I think it’s a great thing for the CV. When I interview people, I like to be able to see a well-rounded education.

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