STEM professionals in Cambridgeshire have been given the opportunity to break through the so-called ‘career break barrier’ with Linx Printing Technologies and Videojet, both part of the Danaher Group, in the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic
The technology and manufacturing firms based in Saint Ives & Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire are offering 4-6 positions as part of their pilot STEM Returners programme – aimed at skilled engineers who feel left behind by outdated recruitment methods.
Both companies are part of The Danaher Product Identification Platform (PID) which also includes Esko, X-Rite, Alltec Foba and Laetus. The companies are independently operated and manufacture and sell product marking and coding equipment, consumables, software, and services into many different vertical markets such as Automotive, Chemicals, Consumer Goods, Food & Beverage and Pharmaceuticals.
Linx Printing Technologies and Videojet have earnt a global reputation as manufacturers of thoughtfully designed and well-engineered products in the coding and marking industry through leveraging the Danaher Business System (DBS) and their products are used on production lines across the world. These include a range of continuous inkjet, thermal inkjet, laser markings and other technologies used in a growing packaging industry where variable data is printed on a product. Any vertical market which requires product identification codes may have a Linx or Videojet printer on its line and this high technology product prints variable information, such as expiration dates and batch codes on grocery products, packaged goods, pharmaceuticals, catalogues and many other products.
Both businesses offer an entrepreneurial environment that is team-centred, customer-driven, quality-focused, and growth-oriented. Working within the Danaher Group, gives you access to a robust career development process and challenging, “stretch” opportunities.
The recruitment programme is seen as an important step to help plug the skills gap facing UK Engineering, especially following the chaotic period caused by Covid-19. The programme also aims to increase diversity in the sector, with only one in 10 UK engineering posts held by women and only three out of 50 being BAME.
Hampshire based STEM Returners recently conducted a study with the help of 350 returning engineers. The report, titled ‘STEM: The Hidden Workforce’ found that two-thirds of engineers believe the recruitment process works against them.
But with STEM Returners’ innovative programme, these same engineers are given an opportunity, with 12-week fully paid placements to show their true value to firms.
The company can now boast over 150 individuals returned to full-time engineering roles, and now Linx and Videojet have become the latest firms to commit to diversifying their workforce.
Returners joining the organisations will be given the support to refresh their knowledge and skills to help boost their professional confidence. Linx and Videojet are open to flexible working arrangements, as they recognise this may be one of the leading contributors to the barrier. The returner will have access to technical skills training, coaching sessions, a returner network and a comprehensive Learning Management System (LMS) for the Danaher Business Systems (DBS) toolset, allowing flexibility for both online and in-person training.
“There are lots of initiatives to cater to the next generation of STEM workers, but the STEM Returners programme is aimed specifically at those wishing to go back to engineering mid-career,” said Natalie Desty, director of STEM Returners.
The programme is open to any professional in Cambridgeshire and surrounding areas who have taken any length career break, as well as those who wish to transfer sectors but lack the relevant work experience. They are specifically searching for returners with skills in the following areas:
- Mechanical Engineering Manager
- Electronics Technician
- Senior Electronics Engineering
- Electronics Engineer
- R&D Project Administrator
- Inkjet Engineer
Following the 12-week programme, all returners who take part will have the opportunity to gain a position with Linx Printing Technologies or Videojet. So far across all programmes, 96% of returners have returned permanently making this programme a genuine commitment to restart local careers permanently.
Adam Pierson, Managing Director of Linx Printing Technologies has embraced the benefits of the pilot scheme ahead of the latest programme launch.
“This is a terrific programme because it helps professionals looking to return to work, Linx in gaining access to top talent in the region, and ultimately Linx’s customers and end users who rely on Linx’s technology.”
Stephen Hayes, UK & Ireland Country Manager states: At Videojet, we have dedicated associates who are Helping Realize Life’s Potential every day by bringing our diverse skills, backgrounds and perspectives together to make a difference. Working with Linx and STEM Returners, this a wonderful opportunity to engage additional STEM talent via a structured programme designed to further increase our workforce diversity.”