The apprenticeship scheme meets the unique engineering challenges for forklift work.

The Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA) has created a new, nationally recognised apprenticeship qualification for forklift engineers, which is the result of a decade-long campaign.

The FLTA developed the scheme to meet the unique engineering challenges for forklift work to respond to the worsening shortage of service engineers entering the industry.

Partnering with Retail Motor Industry Training (ReMIT) and North Warwickshire & Hinckley College, FLTA developed a course named "Vehicle Maintenance & Repairs (Lift Trucks)", which is accredited by the Institute of Motor Industries, a body that provides officially accredited apprentice training for cars, vans, lorries and other vehicles.

FLTA CEO David Ellison says it has been a "marathon effort" to devise a flexible apprentice program to meet the needs of the forklift industry that also met shifting policy criteria.

"These days, forklifts are almost unique in the level and sheer variety of engineering skills they demand, as well as the pace of innovation and improvement in the technology. It all makes for an exciting syllabus - and one we'll need to update on a regular basis," he explains.

UK market leader Linde Material Handling has announced that it will register at least 16 apprentices for the first year of the new course, while students already enrolled for the FLTA's forklift apprenticeship pilot scheme will be transferred free of charge.

Ellison says many UK forklift engineers were approaching retirement and so there is an urgent need for bright and enthusiastic recruits. "I hope companies using forklifts will be delighted if their usual engineer arrives with an apprentice in tow. After all, it shows a forward-thinking company who has your long-term service in mind."

For more information on forklift apprenticeships,or taking on an apprentice, please contact the FLTA on +44 01256 381441 or mail@fork-truck.org.uk.