Cornwall Glass’ Keiran James: From Apprentice to Team Leader

Former Cornwall Glass apprentice, Keiran James, has been promoted to Team Leader at Cornwall Glass Manufacturing. The move is said to demonstrate the success of the apprenticeship scheme in nurturing and retaining future talent.

Keiran, who works at the glass manufacturer’s St Austell branch, joined the company as an apprentice 2019, at the age of 18. After completing a Glass Industry: Glass Processing, Level: 2 apprenticeship in 2021, Keiran went on to complete an NVQ in Glass Processing Level 3.

‘A foot in the door’

“Starting out with Cornwall Glass as an apprentice was a foot in the door to a great industry,” said Keiran. “I’ve learned a trade, gained qualifications and some useful practical skills over the last six years.

“On-the-job training alongside more experienced team members has been especially beneficial, and learning from them has really helped me to forge a career for myself. I’m keen to pass on this knowledge in my new role as Team Leader; especially to new apprentices coming up through the ranks.

“Apprenticeships are a great choice because you earn while you learn, so you don’t get into debt like many university students. I’d recommend an apprenticeship with Cornwall Glass to anyone.”

Part of the Cornwall Group, Cornwall Glass Manufacturing operates across three production sites in Cornwall, Devon and Somerset. Offering the largest range of glass products in the South West, these include insulated glass units and its own-branded Chough Tough toughened glass.

Mark Knight, Managing Director, Cornwall Glass, said: “At Cornwall Glass, recognising and nurturing talent through our apprenticeship schemes is essential for the long-term success of our own operations, as well as the wider industry. A good apprentice can bring energy, enthusiasm, and boost the morale of the whole team.

“We’re fully committed to training and developing the glass manufactures of the future, and it’s really rewarding to see home-grown team members like Keiran progress through the ranks. Keiran has the attitude, the knowledge and the skills to make a great Team Leader.”

For more information, visit: www.cornwallglass.co.uk