Yamazaki Mazak has declared its recent recruitment open house a major success and is planning a second event later this month to hire more trainees.

The recruitment open house, which was held in April, attracted 22 attendees with 16 subsequently being offered positions as trainee machine tool builders. The event, which was open to all ages from education leavers through to career changers, was advertised online and through internal notices.

Christopher Bills, production manager – assembly at Mazak’s European Manufacturing Plant at Badgeworth Drive in Worcester, says a change in format helped attract more attendees.

“We changed our method because we recognise that not everyone responds well to traditional job interviewing. Our open house events are normally for customers, where we throw open our doors and let people see the facility and how we make our machines.

“The recruitment open house was based on this template – more informal with an opportunity to meet the management and supervisory teams to find out more about the Mazak culture and our way of working. Attendees then went on a tour of the facility to see our machines being made and the advanced technology, including industrial robots and other automation systems we use, along with a tour of the European Technology Centre.”

Mr Bills continued: “We selected people mainly on attitude as these are trainee vacancies. With a good attitude we can train all the skills required to be a successful machine tool builder. I am delighted that all 16 who were offered a position accepted. The new recruits are now working in a variety of roles including electrical assembly, mechanical assembly, and fitting roles.”

The company now intends to run a second event on the 25th May at 10am. Mr Bills added: “Like most sectors we are experiencing challenges in finding the right people to fill the roles that are available.

“We need good people with the right attitude and, in return, we can offer a rewarding career in one of the most advanced manufacturing facilities in Europe. I would urge anyone interested in a career in machine building, whether they are a school leaver or career changer, to turn up on 25th May at 10am at Mazak for the next recruitment open house.”

www.mazakeu.co.uk