An apprentice from Merthyr Tydfil & Rhymney was joined by Gerald Jones MP in the House of Commons this week to celebrate the 12,000 apprenticeships provided by the UK’s Aerospace, Defence, Security and Space industries.

There were over 100 apprentices from some of Britain’s leading aerospace, defence, security and space companies who attended the ADS Parliamentary Reception.  Gerald Jones was pleased to welcome to the House of Commons Amanda Jackson from General Dynamics UK who is a leading prime contractor and complex systems integrator working in partnership with government, military and private companies around the world  which is based in Merthyr Tydfil.

Organised by the trade organisation ADS Group, and sponsored by United Technologies Aerospace Systems, the event recognised the valuable contribution apprentices make to our important, high-skill manufacturing industries, and highlighted the world-leading technologies that many of the apprentices are working to develop.

Gerald Jones said:

“I was delighted to welcome Conor Andreadis an apprentice from General Dynamics UK in Merthyr Tydfil to the House of Commons. The reception was an excellent opportunity to meet young people working towards highly-skilled and rewarding careers and to celebrate the huge talent working in these world-leading sectors. Connor is a great ambassador for our local area and the UK’s advanced manufacturing industries.”

Paul Everitt, Chief Executive of ADS Group, said:

“Apprentices represent the future for our industries, which is why providing an opportunity for them to celebrate their contribution with their MP is so important. The aerospace, defence, security and space industries invest in training in every part of the UK and I am delighted that this reception provides a chance to celebrate the achievements of those working hard at the start of their careers.”