East Midlands Renault Trucks distributor RH Commercial Vehicles (RHCV), say they are "reaping the rewards" of investing in young talent. Two members of staff from its Leicester (Cossington) site have recently completed their apprenticeships. RHCV has been in Leicester for five years, and employs 11 staff at the site.

Both from Leicestershire, Jake Curtis, 22 and Thomas Judd, 18, are “Valued members of the RHCV team,” according to their boss Steve Astill, Dealer Point Manager.

Astill said: “RHCV is committed to developing staff through apprenticeships and training programmes: they add real value to our company and give us the ground to build the business.”

Parts advisor, Thomas, joined RHCV as a parts apprentices at 16 from his studies at Wreake Valley Academy. While Technician Jake, who recently completed his third year technician apprenticeship, joined RHCV at 17 following his studies at Stephenson College.

“Coming into the business as an apprentice, you quickly learn your place as part of the team. RHCV provides a nurturing environment where you can really learn your skills but in a friendly working environment.” Curtis said.

RHCV has been in Leicester for five years, and employs 11 staff at the site.

The automotive industry is struggling to attract young trainees to the sector, RHCV said. They said the industry's aging workforce, is an issue that the industry needs to address.

RHCV also said some of their apprentices have eventually achieved senior management positions, in technical roles, parts management or vehicles sales.

RHCV employ 69 staff, including eight apprentices, across three sites in Nottingham, Alfreton and Leicester and has been an authorised selling agent for Renault Trucks for almost 30 years.  RHCV provides new and used sales, service and parts for the full Renault Trucks range as well as all-makes parts and servicing for commercial vehicles.