A testing and inspection specialist has launched a global learning and development initiative as part of a multi-million-pound investment in apprenticeships and employee skills.
Over the past five years, SOCOTEC UK and Ireland, whose headquarters are in Burton upon Trent, has invested around £2 million, supporting more than 450 employees through structured training programmes.
In 2025 130 new apprentices started their ‘learning journeys’, the highest number in a single year so far.
The newly launched Blue Academy – an extension of what was previously the SOCOTEC Academy within the UK – brings together the business’s learning activities across 27 countries, standardising training, leadership development, technical courses and professional certification.
The company’s apprenticeship programmes include 50 digital and in-person courses delivered through 26 apprenticeship providers, catering to both early career professionals and those seeking career changes or skills enhancement.
Lisa Massey, pictured above, HR Director at SOCOTEC UK & Ireland, said: “We’re incredibly proud of how our learning and development opportunities have enhanced the careers of so many colleagues.
“Some of our people have been working on their courses for up to five years, showing real tenacity and determination to get to the end of their learning journeys. We currently have over 200 active apprentices, with over 120 managers supporting them.
“This investment is about creating genuine career pathways and recognising the exceptional talent we have throughout the business, from early careers apprentices to upskilling employees at every stage of their career.”
In addition to apprenticeships, SOCOTEC also offers technical training across multiple disciplines such as building control surveying, ground investigation and asbestos, as well as skills training includingsessions on Microsoft Excel, communication skills and time management.
The company recently celebrated its third annual Earn and Learn graduation ceremony at the Pirelli Stadium in Burton, where 85 employees who successfully completed various learning and development courses were recognised.
