HMG Paints’ has been rewarded for its long term commitment to training and its continued focus on developing young people from the local area.

The stellar work carried out by the Manchester-based coatings manufacturer was acknowledged at the Trafford College Business Training Awards 2014 in May and HMG Paints received the Commitment to Training Award for Science and Pharmacy.

Standout HMG Paints apprentice, Joe Di Bartolo, 21, also proudly received the award for Advanced Apprentice of the Year for Lab Technology in recognition of his achievements. Joe’s eight months within the HMG Paints laboratory have been very productive and he has already been involved in the testing and development of a range of products utilising innovative new technologies.

“I have really enjoyed my apprenticeship so far and I am thrilled to have my hard work and academic achievements recognised by the Trafford College. The training provided by the college has been excellent and my colleagues within the HMG Paints Laboratory have made it easy for me to settle in and develop as a paint chemist,” said Di Bartolo.

Sir Bill Moorcroft, Principal for Trafford College, commented on the success of the annual event: “Trafford College recognises the importance of investing in the future of local business, and we are proud to celebrate the exceptional organisations that go the extra mile to invest in workforce development. As the economy improves it is businesses with quality staff who will be at the leading edge and it’s heartening to see so many businesses thriving in what have been very challenging times.”

HMG Paints, the UK’s largest independent industrial paints manufacturer, has a history of providing training for its employees and working closely with young people from the local community. There are eight apprentices currently working on a variety of projects across a range of departments throughout the company.

A further eight students from Manchester Communications Academy also visit HMG Paints on a weekly basis as part of the innovative Future Entrepreneurship Scheme. This programme provides the candidates, aged 15 to 16, with a unique hands-on opportunity to experience working within the coatings industry. This project will not only contribute to the development of eight promising young people, but also build for the future of the business.

Business development director, Steve Crossman, is heavily involved in the apprenticeship schemes underway at HMG Paints, and collected the Commitment to Training Award on behalf of the company. “HMG Paints has always been committed to the professional development of our employees and we are proud to receive this recognition for our efforts. We currently have apprentices working in production, laboratory and administrative departments throughout the company and believe we are establishing solid foundations for the future of HMG Paints.”