Chamber Training and City Electrical Factors partner to empower the next generation of apprentices
Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training is celebrating its successful long-term partnership with leading UK electrical wholesaler, City Electrical Factors (CEF), which is helping young people across the region build rewarding careers and progress into senior roles.
The partnership, which was established more than 16 years ago, has so far supported 65 apprentices, with 17 accountancy apprentices currently on the programme at CEF’s Kenilworth-based finance department.
Through this collaboration, apprentices at CEF benefit from hands-on experience, as well as mentoring from experienced professionals, while studying for qualifications ranging from Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) Level 2 through to Professional Accounting Technician (AAT) Level 4. This structured approach provides a clear pathway for progression with several apprentices advancing into leadership and management roles within the business.
Rob Hetherton, Finance Manager at City Electrical Factors, commented, “Apprenticeships are central to how we build and retain talent at CEF. They contribute real value from day one, and we see them develop into confident, capable professionals.
"The partnership with Chamber Training ensures we’re offering the right support, training and qualifications to help them succeed.”
CEF’s commitment to professional development reflects its long-standing belief in nurturing potential and promoting from within. Apprentices are given exposure to the company’s financial operations, customer accounts, and digital processes, allowing them to gain the technical and interpersonal skills essential for long-term career success.
One of those apprentices is Chelsie Donnelly, who joined CEF earlier this year after completing an employability programme with Chamber Training, Path 2 Apprenticeships, that helped prepare her for the world of work.
Path 2 Apprenticeships is an initiative of The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), designed to help young people and adults, aged 19–29, across the region take their first step towards a successful career. Aimed at those who may not yet be ready for a full apprenticeship, the programme provides tailored training, employability support, and hands-on experience to build confidence and develop the essential skills employers are looking for.
Participants receive guidance from expert coaches and training advisors at Chamber Training and often secure work placements that lead directly into apprenticeships or employment. By connecting local talent with local businesses, the Path 2 Apprenticeship Programme plays a vital role in strengthening the West Midlands’ workforce and supporting inclusive economic growth.
Now working as a Sales Ledger Clerk, Chelsie is studying towards her AAT Level 2 Accounting qualification and plans to progress through to Level 4 to become a qualified accountant.
Chelsie added, “Since starting my apprenticeship, I’ve learned so much more than just accounting. I’ve built confidence, developed communication skills, and had great support from everyone in the team. It’s made me excited about where this career can go.”
Rob added “Our partnership with Chamber Training ensures a steady pipeline of skilled, motivated individuals entering the business. We’ve had so many success stories of young talented apprentices offering a fresh perspectives and enthusiasm. In return, we give them a strong foundation, the structure and support to help them succeed both here at CEF or elsewhere.”
Nicky Cheshire, Business Development Manager at Chamber Training, said: “At Chamber Training, we’re fortunate to work with employers like City Electrical Factors who are truly committed to developing young talent.”
“Partnerships like this create fantastic opportunities for apprentices to gain valuable experience and progress in their careers, while also helping businesses grow with skilled, motivated employees. We’re incredibly proud of the achievements of CEF’s apprentices and the positive impact programmes like this have across our region.”
As one of the region’s leading apprenticeship providers, Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training works with employers across multiple sectors to create tailored training programmes that meet business needs and open doors for local talent.
Through partnerships like the one with CEF, Chamber Training continues to equip individuals with the skills, confidence, and qualifications they need to thrive, supporting both personal success and the region’s economic growth.
For more information about apprenticeship opportunities or how your business can get involved, visit www.cw-chambertraining.co.uk or call 024 7623 1122.