Sim Manufacturer Bolsters Workforce Amid Expansion

EDM, a manufacturer of training devices across civil aviation, defence and rail sectors has created 20 posts this year and has also accepted its new cohort of apprentices who will begin their four-year training programme.

The board undertook a strategic review following the pandemic and this has led to complementary acquisitions alongside the development of new products and a move into additional manufacturing sectors, such as aircraft parts, composites and steel fabrication.

EDM added to its portfolio in 2021 by acquiring RGF Support, a training and infrastructure support business operating at major UK airports, and earlier this year by acquiring SkyPeople, which provides training for airline cabin crew. EDM company also has an aviation training academy at its base in Manchester.

The company’s recruitment programme has increased its workforce to 134 this year. Managing Director Tony Bermingham said he was confident that EDM would perform strongly over the next 12 months, and as a result could seek to recruit up to 40 engineers and other professionals to support client projects.

“All these additional revenue streams will provide opportunities for further job creation as the business continues to grow,” said Bermingham. “We are confident that 2024 looks like being a busy year for EDM, and this could mean recruiting between 30 and 40 engineers and professionals to support ongoing projects.”

The group’s latest apprentice cohort comprises teenagers Shay Brennan, Jake Shenton (both electrical engineers), Archie McKimm (mechanical fitter) and Tom Kingsman(machinist).

EDM received more than 100 applicants for its latest apprenticeship programme, which runs for four years in conjunction with training provider Rochdale Training.

“Our apprentices not only give us the ability to maintain our high-end traditional engineering skills,” said Bermingham. “Younger people also bring with them new ideas and technology, thereby broadening our capability.”