Aston Martin plans charitable foundation to fund UK apprenticeships

The president and group chief executive of Aston Martin Lagonda, Dr Andy Palmer, has announced plans to create the Palmer Foundation, a privately-funded programme to create industrial apprenticeship opportunities for young people in the UK.

Dr Palmer, who began his own automotive career as an apprentice, has undertaken to fund the scheme, which will also be supported by existing shareholders, members of the senior management team at Aston Martin Lagonda and Hitomi Palmer, wife of the CEO.

He said: “Young people can struggle to get on the first rung of the career ladder so we are creating the Palmer Foundation to help get them started and into high quality apprenticeships.

“A person’s background should never preclude them from achieving their potential, and in this case becoming what could turn out to be some of the best engineers of their generation. This is just the beginning for the Palmer Foundation: in time the engineering scholarship will be joined by other areas such as marketing, design and legal careers.”

Working with partners including the Rio Ferdinand Foundation, the Palmer Foundation will provide a pathway for youth development by inspiring young people and providing the tools they need to tap into their natural talents and reach their potential.

The charitable foundation will operate independently of the apprenticeship scheme at Aston Martin Lagonda, which earlier this month welcomed its biggest ever intake of 50 apprentices and 26 graduates.

“Apprenticeships provide a kickstart to a young person’s chosen career,” said Dr Palmer. “They offer relevant experience, specialist guidance and support as the apprentices study for recognised qualifications whilst building useful industry contacts. Vitally, they can also earn while they learn.”

Dr Palmer began his career as a technical apprentice at UK Automotive Products, taking his first managerial role two years after completing a four-year apprenticeship. He was only 22 years old but already had six years of experience under his belt. He continued to study as his career progressed and his qualifications now include a Diploma in Industrial Management, a Master’s Degree in Product Engineering, Chartered Engineer status, and a PhD in Engineering Management.

He is a Fellow of The Institute of Mechanical Engineers and a Fellow of The Royal Academy of Engineering.

Details of the scheme and its launch schedule are to be announced later in 2018.

Aston Martin www.astonmartin.com