Staying Secure in a Booming Electrical Industry: Why a GTO Apprenticeship is the Smart Choice

The electrical industry is currently booming, with major construction projects underway and demand for skilled tradespeople higher than ever. This surge in growth is exciting, offering abundant opportunities for those entering the field. However, as we’ve seen in the past, the industry is also prone to volatility, and the landscape can shift quickly - large companies can go into administration, causing mass layoffs and uncertainty.

This is where apprenticeships through a Group Training Organisation (GTO) offer a major advantage. While the industry may be booming now, we know that market shifts can happen. A GTO provides stability and security by ensuring that if one employer faces financial difficulty, we can seamlessly place you with another. This is key to ensuring that your apprenticeship continues uninterrupted, even when unexpected changes occur.

Group Training Organisations have significantly improved apprenticeship completion rates since their introduction, offering better support and stability for apprentices. Here are some key insights based on available data:

• Higher Completion Rates: Apprentices working through GTOs typically have completion rates ranging from 70% to 80%, compared to the national average of around 50% to 60% for directly employed apprentices. This shows a substantial difference in success rates, with GTOs providing more consistent job placements and training support.

• Reduced Attrition: According to research by the National Group Training Association (NGTA), apprentices with GTOs are 50% more likely to complete their training than those employed directly by a single employer, largely due to the added security and variety of work opportunities provided by GTOs.

Recent industry examples highlight the difference a GTO can make. With reputable builders entering administration and large electrical companies laying off volume staff overnight due to financial strain, GTO apprentices were able to stay on track by being connected with other employers, ensuring they don’t lose valuable time or progress.

Choosing a GTO means more than just a steady pathway to qualification—it means peace of mind knowing that no matter what the future holds, your apprenticeship and career remain on solid ground. So, while the industry is booming, remember that completing your apprenticeship through a GTO offers unmatched security, ensuring that you're prepared for both the opportunities and the challenges ahead.

Stay focused, stay supported, and let us help you succeed—no matter what the market brings!

Author - Paddy Courtney