Two talented engineering scholars have successfully transitioned from the classroom to the shop floor after securing full-time employment at Steel Benders UK (SBUK).
The Teesside-based steel profiling, forming and shaping specialists have officially hired Deaton Sargeant and Ben Prest, both 18, as trainee machine operatives.
The duo has wasted no time making a positive impact and they are already operating advanced machinery to cut galvanised steel and create vital components for the company’s new facility on Brenda Road in Hartlepool, where SBUK expects to be move to this summer.
The teenagers originally joined Steel Benders on a placement as part of their T-Level in maintenance, installation and repair at Middlesbrough College.
After impressing staff with their work ethic during their mandatory 315-hour industry placement, the company moved quickly to secure them on a permanent basis while they await their summer results.
For Deaton, who previously worked behind the bar at Middlesbrough’s Riverside Stadium on matchdays, transitioning into the engineering sector to help physically shape the materials for his new workplace has been a rewarding challenge.
“I am very pleased to have been given this opportunity,” Deaton said. “The placement gave me an insight into employment, and it has been really enjoyable. I came into this role hoping to gain experience, and it’s been a great environment to work in.
“I have been working directly on the plasma machine, cutting galvanised steel for the new buildings on the new Steel Benders site at Brenda Road ready for when we move.
“Other than that, we have cut profiles which will be pressed or rolled for clients. After mastering the plasma, I would like to learn some of the other machines.”
Leading name
As a leading name in heavy-duty metal profiling across the north of England, Steel Benders provide high-precision services such as plate rolling, section bending and press braking.
Currently operating out of Middlesbrough, the company’s upcoming relocation and expansion to the new Brenda Road site in Hartlepool will further enhance its capacity for advanced high-definition plasma and laser cutting technology.
Ben, who is also an avid Middlesbrough football fan and a qualified referee, highlighted the tough job market for young people and the value of turning an educational placement into a career in the steel industry.
He said: “I was buzzing to secure the job. Many of my friends have been struggling to get a job, so I know how hard it can be.
“To have come here for some experience and then secure a full-time role is fantastic. I am now in the world of work and it feels good.
“Everyone at Steel Benders has been superb. I have operated the plasma, I’m enhancing my experiences with CNC cutting, and I helped with pressing yesterday. I am learning so much. It’s exciting.”
Broader strategy
Integrating students into a high-tech steel shaping and forming environment is part of Steel Benders’ broader strategy to ensure local talent is equipped to support the region’s industrial future, both in Middlesbrough and at their expanding Hartlepool base.
Phil Anderson, operations director, said: “The young talent here have shown so much promise and enthusiasm to learn. It was a no-brainer to give them the work.
“I find it important to provide opportunities to scholars and trainees. We wanted to give them experience of the shop floor that works hand in hand with their recently completed courses.
“Once they are trained up, they will move on to the next machine, and eventually they will be able to use them all. They work independently for the most part – and have quickly become important members of the team.”
Phil confirmed that the company’s commitment to youth development will continue, with Steel Benders signed up to take on another cohort of T-level students next year to further support the next generation of engineers.
Middlesbrough College
The successful placements were facilitated by Middlesbrough College’s engineering scholarship programme, which aims to bridge the gap between education and the practical demands of the engineering sector.
Niamh Swaddle, the College’s engineering scholarship programme co-ordinator, said: “It is incredibly rewarding to see Deaton and Ben transition seamlessly from their T-Level placements into full-time employment.
“We are extremely grateful to Steel Benders UK for turning a work placement into a tangible livelihood. The overarching aim of this programme is to connect employers with future engineers so they can mentor and support them.”
*To learn more about Steel Benders UK, their upcoming move to Hartlepool, and their full range of steel profiling, forming and shaping services, visit steelbenders.co.uk
