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Double award win for Chesterfield creative technology firm

Chesterfield-based Noonah, a company which provides experiential engagement technology has secured two prestigious accolades at this year’s Event Tech Awards.

The company emerged victorious in the categories of ‘Best New Technology Product’ and ‘Best Use of Technology for Engagement & Interaction (B2C)’.

Noonah is a trailblazer in delivering cutting-edge experiential engagement tech for brand activations, experiential retail, and events.

The first award, ‘Best New Technology’, was presented to the company for its groundbreaking innovation, Glamdroid®. This robotic camera arm has redefined event experiences by integrating high-speed robotics, super slow-motion video, and unparalleled social media shareability.

The technology has quickly become a game-changer in the event industry, offering agencies, brands, and private events the opportunity to provide guests with an unparalleled A-list experience.

Glamdroid® has been seen at major events, such as Disney’s Mandalorian Premiere, TikTok EOY Wrap Party, H&M x Mugler Launch, as well as working with brands like No7 Beauty, Adobe and White Claw.

The second award, ‘Best Use of Technology for Engagement & Interaction (B2C)’, was granted for the company’s collaborative project with eBay.

Central to eBay’s appearance at MCM Comic Con, Noonah’s cutting-edge technology facilitated captivating interactions between the brand and comic-book fans.

The eBay “TCG ME” experience, developed in collaboration with agencies DEPT® and Experience12, featured branded onsite photo booths and live event printing technology, enabling attendees to create unique trading cards in real-time.

The engaging experience allowed comic book fans to appear on personalised collectible cards. Attendees could choose from various characters and themes, infusing their personalities into their unique trading cards.

Noonah’s technology captured selfies and integrated them into the card designs, with skilled technicians printing the cards within minutes. Attendees left the event with a physical card and an animated digital version to share on social media using #ebaycomiccon22.

“We are thrilled to receive these prestigious awards, recognising the innovation and impact of our technologies,” said Vanessa Holmes, Senior Account Manager at Noonah.

“These awards exemplify our commitment to revolutionising the event industry, creating unforgettable experiences for guests, and helping brands connect with their audiences in meaningful ways.”

Noonah supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

noonah event tech awards win

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

Junction Arts unveils new art installation in Chesterfield town centre

A new art installation has been unveiled at Elder Way in Chesterfield town centre this week, created by artist Lucie Maycock to shine a light on community arts in Chesterfield and raise awareness of local charity, Junction Arts.

Jomast, the company which has developed the former Co-op department store building on Elder Way, commissioned the piece to bring colour and light to the building this winter, creating a point of interest while telling the story of Junction Arts and the work they do in the community.

The artwork can be seen in the window of one of the new units in the Elder Way building.

Entitled ‘We are all artists and creators’, the artwork includes original illustrations, which frame a stunning collection of lanterns that have been made by the local community over the last three decades, for the annual Bolsover Lantern Parade. People can see the display in the window located opposite the Co-op Bank, which is best viewed in the evening when the lanterns are lit up – over 7000 lights have been used to bring the artwork to life.

The window was designed by Chesterfield artist and Junction Arts board member Lucie Maycock, who has a personal connection to the building. Lucie’s Mother, Karen Maycock was the Display Supervisor for the Co-op, dressing the windows at the old department store for over 30 years before it closed. Karen has been on hand to help Lucie with the design, revisiting her old place of work to ensure that the window display is perfect.

Lucie said: “When Junction Arts asked me to create the window display on Elder Way in the old Co-op building, I was excited by the idea. Not just about the project itself but the link to my Mum and her career as a window dresser in the same building. I grew up seeing my Mum in the windows of this beautiful department store, I remember walking home from school via town to see if I could see her and knock on the window to say hi and show all my friends that this is what she did as a job.

“I asked my Mum if she wanted to help create the arrangements for the window display. She was really excited about going back there and helping me to make the fabulous creation come to life. I am so lucky to have her skills and expertise to help execute this project, it’s a real privilege.

“Drawing onto the window was a wonderful experience. I kept imagining that this was how my Mum would have felt for all those years she spent at the Co-op. As people walked by, they were so friendly, saying hi, asking what I was doing and generally being wonderful. I felt emotionally connected to the artwork, space and purpose of this project.

“Doing this window for Junction Arts was a pleasure and I feel privileged to be promoting my passion for community arts whilst working with my Mum, and being able to put myself in the same place she did so many times.”

Junction Arts is an award-winning participatory arts charity, that was established in 1976 to develop and deliver engaging arts experiences within disadvantaged areas, to improve wellbeing, build confidence and skills, address inequality and inspire change. The local charity runs several projects throughout the year as well as organising events including The Chesterfield Children’s Festival, Tapton Lock Festival and Bolsover Lantern Parade.

Junction Arts Managing Director, Emily Bowman said: “Thank you to Jomast for giving us this opportunity to showcase community art in the town centre, it’s great to see the lanterns as the centrepiece to the design, as we are celebrating 30 years of the Bolsover Lantern Parade this year. We hope that Lucie and Karen’s amazing work will bring light and hope to people, inspiring them to get creative in their communities. The window perfectly reflects the work we do in Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire and I hope it encourages more people to engage with us in the future.”

Jomast’s Commercial Property Director Mark Hill said: “We’re all really excited by the artwork that Lucie is creating. Her link to the building’s former use as a Co-op department store is remarkable and we couldn’t think of anyone better placed to bring one of the new units to life with this stunning artwork. The lanterns really will shine a light on this beautiful building and its redevelopment.”

The artwork will be on display until spring 2024. For more information visit www.junctionarts.org or follow Junction Arts on social media @JunctionArtsUK.

Junction Arts and Elder Way Development support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

junction arts elder way window

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United Cast Bar inspires Brookfield School pupils by hosting the 2023 student challenge

Chesterfield’s United Cast Bar is continuing to play its part in inspiring the next generation of engineers in the town, by hosting a local school to help them discover the exciting pathways available into the sector.

A group of year 10 students from Brookfield School Chesterfield, all whom have an interest in STEM subjects, were challenged to create a short boardroom presentation on the following;

  • The history of iron
  • Its impact and position in Chesterfield over the last 50 years
  • The uses of irons in modern life
  • The environmental future of iron-making

A total of 27 students wanted to be involved with the challenge and were split into 9 teams of 3. After some fantastic presentations, 4 groups were shortlisted for first, second and 2 x third-place positions.

United Cast Bar’s aim is to encourage local young people to understand the development and importance of the industry in the local Community, the careers that are available in the manufacturing and engineering industries locally and to show what interesting and rewarding careers these industries can offer.

The winners were invited to visit United Cast Bar to give their presentations to members of the management team, have a tour of the factory, join the team for lunch and receive their prizes.

United cast bar brookfield

“It was fantastic to see the work done and learn some interesting facts the children had researched about cast iron and its importance to the local area. A successful and enjoyable day was had by all” James Brand UCB Foundries Managing Director remarked, “the professionalism the students showed in both their research and in presenting their results – it was a great pleasure to welcome them to UCB.”

Since 2014, United Cast Bar has also been involved in the Made in Chesterfield initiative, which sees businesses offering tours of their premises to showcase the range of careers available in STEM sectors. Read more about the 2023 Made in Chesterfield festival here. 

United Cast Bar supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Made in Chesterfield UCB

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Love Chesterfield, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , ,

Prestigious King’s Awards for Chesterfield Volunteer Centre and Wilmott Dixon

Two organisations which support Chesterfield’s growth and regeneration have been awarded highly prestigious King’s Awards.

Wilmott Dixon, which is a member of the town’s Property and Construction Group King’s Award for Enterprise for Promoting Opportunity. Willmott Dixon was one of only nine companies recognised this year in this category.

It’s the fourth such accolade for the company, and the first from HM King Charles III. It was awarded in recognition of the wide-ranging activities of Willmott Dixon’s people to make society a better place, especially for those who face significant barriers to achieving their full potential in life.

In the last year, four out of five of Wilmott Dixon’s 2000+ workforce have delivered a social value-based activity in their community to improve the life chances of others. This includes mentoring, supporting people with interview training, careers advice and enhancing a local community asset for people to use. In all, last year saw Willmott Dixon’s team create and deliver over 608 community programmes and engage with over 70,000 people in activities to boost their life chances. This led to 88% saying it had a beneficial impact on them.

In total, over 48,000 hours were volunteered by Willmott Dixon people, and this led to over 200 people facing major barriers to work gaining employment through the company’s intervention. Willmott Dixon also helped further drive social mobility among the most vulnerable and less fortunate by spending over £2.5m with social businesses last year.

Rick Willmott explained: “This sense of purpose to help the communities where we work is in the very DNA of our company. From offering opportunities and employability skills for those facing major barriers to employment, to improving buildings so they encourage better community cohesion – our social value projects are an important reason people want to work for us and their impact is something our customers and communities value hugely.

“I want to express my deep appreciation to everyone who’s work has made a difference. This award belongs to us all, and it reflects the passion and dedication we share for helping others.”

Meanwhile, The Volunteer Centre Chesterfield & North East Derbyshire has been awarded The Kings Award for Voluntary Service.  This is the highest Award given to voluntary groups across the UK, and it is awarded for life. The award is for voluntary groups rather than individuals and is seen as the MBE for voluntary groups.

In a correspondence from the KAVS Team The Volunteer Centre were told;

“His Majesty The King has approved the KAVS National Assessment Committee’s recommendation that the volunteers of The Volunteer Centre – Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire should receive The King’s Award for Voluntary Service 2023. This represents a tremendous achievement and we hope that the group’s volunteers will feel immensely proud of it.”

The announcement was made on November 14th and cited officially in the ‘London Gazette’ of the same date.  This will be followed by a local presentation of a cut glass award and an official certificate signed by The King.  In the summer of next year, representatives of The Volunteer Centre will be invited to a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace.

CEO Dave Radford, on hearing the news said: “Obviously we are all tremendously proud of what we have achieved.  Our volunteers worked so hard and they did so much during the pandemic providing a much-needed shopping service to individuals.  The local communities would have struggled without their fantastic help.

“However, it is so much more than that, this isn’t something that is handed out on a plate, it is an Award that shines a light on the fantastic work carried out by volunteers and groups that make a big difference in their communities.  I think it will take sometime to wipe the smile off my face!”

Wilmott Dixon supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

community chesterfield award win

Dave Radford, Chesterfield Volunteer Centre with guests at the Chesterfield Volunteer Sector Awards

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We all have a role to play in training the next generation, says Chesterfield construction firm

With £2 billion of developments in the pipeline, Chesterfield’s vibrant property and construction sector stands as a cornerstone of the town’s economic development.

More than 50 businesses from the sector support local growth through the Chesterfield Champions network. In addition, the town’s Property and Construction Group provides expertise to support the area’s key regeneration projects. As well as encouraging open conversations around the opportunities and challenges facing the industry.

The sector offers an exciting and diverse range of roles, from planning and design right through to project build. Despite this, a complex set of challenges around skills and recruitment still exists. In the East Midlands, 17,500 more workers in the industry by 2027 according to CITB.

Businesses in Chesterfield work proactively to showcase the breadth of careers available in the industry through the Made in Chesterfield scheme, which involves firms opening their doors and offering tours for young people from schools in the town. Since its launch in 2014, Made in Chesterfield has provided more than 3,500 young people with insights into what a career in construction can offer.

Getting involved with Made in Chesterfield for the first time this year is Dalton Roofing, a business which moved its base to Chesterfield around five years ago and has seen continued growth since relocating here. The firm continues to train enthusiastic young recruits as part of that expansion, and its owner is now encouraging more people in his sector to act as ‘positive role models’ to address skills shortages.

Phil Dalton believes the personal touch is key to nurturing up-and-coming talent: “You have to make them believe in themselves to make them the best they can be.”

“As a roofing company, we’re in a very specialist industry. We’ve got 12 teams, and they are all homegrown.

“We send our apprentices to college and have in-house roofing rigs to train them. We’ve got a really good site manager, Paul Stephenson who is an award-winning roofer himself, and he passes a lot on through mentoring our trainees.”

Chesterfield is not standing still in terms of addressing the skills gap. A new Construction Skills Hub is now running in Staveley, giving people access to a live building site to hone their skills and kickstart their careers. The hub aims to boost the sector by training more than 5,000 workers by 2030.

Phil believes that now is a great time for people to get into the sector, despite challenging economic conditions across the UK: “It’s a skill for life. I left school in 1985 and they were tough times, just off the back of the miners’ strikes.

“My parents told me to learn a trade, so that’s what I did. I did roofing for my work experience and went to college to do roof slating and tiling. That has kept me in work all my life. So, I think that it’s important for young people to upskill, re-train and learn a trade.”

Supporting this year’s Made in Chesterfield campaign, Phil says he is looking forward to passing on his passion for construction to the next generation.

He added: “It gives you a sense of pride. The thing about roofing is you can look back on a project and say to yourself ‘I did that.’ Getting into construction is amazing; you can take it anywhere in the world! We now deal with renewables and green construction, focusing on new technologies such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting. Roofing is one of probably more than a hundred different roles in construction alone.”

Looking to the future, Phil believes that all organisations have a role in ensuring the sector has enough skilled people to thrive and grow: “I would say to any business that they need young people, or even slightly older people who are looking to upskill and retrain, as they are the future of our industry.

“As a sector, we need to pass on our skills and wisdom and act as a positive role model. We’ve got to keep training people of all ages to ensure our sector has enough skilled people to survive in the future. There is also a massive gap in our industry for women. We’d love to see more women coming into construction, especially roofing!”

Find out more about how your business can get involved in shaping the town’s development as part of the Property and Construction Group.

Get more information about how your organisation can support Made in Chesterfield.

Phil Dalton Roofing

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

Centre Manager at Chesterfield’s Vicar Lane Shopping Centre wins national award

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre Manager, Shaun Brown won a highly commended award for ‘Manager of the Year’ at the Sceptre Awards in London.

The Sceptre Awards is a leading industry event, recognising talent and excellence in the retail sector across the UK.

Shaun was awarded for his exceptional performance and professionalism in getting the centre back on track post-COVID whilst forging a new direction for the scheme as it enters a new phase in its growth.

His energies have been focused on the implementation of new car parking facilities and training his award-winning security team. He has also been imperative in supporting the independent businesses at Vicar Lane and strives to look at ways for the retailers to boost their sales.

The recent installation of the giant outdoor screen has resulted in a free prominent promotional space for tenants.

As a military veteran, he supports key community initiatives such as the STAND TO project which extends help to the families and loved ones of the ex-force’s personnel.

He strives to make the shopping centre a recognised safe space and bringing a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to those adjusting to civilian life and working through their own complex issues.

Shaun commented: “I was delighted to be awarded highly commended for Manager of the Year. I feel proud of this recognition and will continue to focus my efforts on supporting all the retailers at the centre and providing a safe and inclusive place for the community.”

For more information about Vicar Lane please visit: https://www.vicarlaneshoppingcentre.co.uk/

Chesterfield has everything you need for the perfect Christmas. Find out more about the best local gifts, food and drink, events and activities taking place in the town by visiting our Christmas in Chesterfield page. 

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

shaun brown vicar lane

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Chesterfield to be lit up for Christmas this weekend

Residents and visitors are invited to attend the Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On and Market on Sunday 19 November.

The event is being held in Chesterfield’s town centre, and crowds can enjoy a range of street entertainment from 12pm.

This is a fantastic free event for all the family to enjoy – whether you want to sing along to some Christmas carols, listen to a steel band, be entertained by the National Elf Service, or simply see the festive lights being turned on across the town, there is something for everyone.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “If you want to get into the festive spirit, what better way to do this than to attend our Christmas Lights Switch On event. Come along with your family and friends to enjoy all of the free street entertainment, as well as having the opportunity to do some shopping in the town centre and by visiting our festive market stalls.

“Shopping local is a fantastic way to support our local economy and there are some incredible independent traders across the town centre.”

This year’s special guest appearing in Rykneld Square is Paddington™. He will be appearing outside the Visitor Information Centre at intervals between 12pm and 3.30pm check the website for more information. Don’t forget to bring your phones or cameras to take photos of Paddington during your visit.

The stage show will be held in New Square from 3.30pm with carol singing Christmas Crackers, Directions Theatre Arts dance school and a stunning light show with juggling and hula-hoops.

Stars of the Aladdin Pantomime including Anne Hegerty, Nigel Clarke, Tony Rudd and more will also be taking to the stage to join the celebration and host a ticket giveaway. The lights will be officially switched on at 4.45pm.

A market will be held alongside the event and the Market Hall will be open – making it a fantastic opportunity to support local independent businesses and start preparing for Christmas. Chesterfield residents will be able to park for free with their free resident’s pass.

What’s happening when and where?

Location: Rykneld Square (Outside Visitor Information Centre)

  • Paddington 12pm – 12.30pm, 1pm – 1.30pm, 2pm – 2.30pm, 3pm – 3.30pm.

Location: Market Place

  • Chesterfield Studios (festive singers)1.05pm – 1.30pm and 2.20pm – 2.45pm.

Location: Central Pavement

  • Phoenix Concert Band 12.30pm – 12.50pm, 2pm – 2.20pm and 3pm – 3.20pm.

Location: New Square

Jon Hicks (Artist in action) 12pm – 12.15pm, 12.45pm – 1pm, 1.30pm – 1.45pm and 2.15pm – 2.30pm

Location: Walkabout Entertainment Around the Market Area

  • The Halo Glow Show 2pm – 2.20pm and 3.30pm – 3.50pm.
  • Carol Singing Christmas Crackers 12.40pm – 1.10pm and 4.50pm – 5.20pm.
  • Jacks of Frost 12pm – 12.30pm, 1.30pm – 2pm and 3pm – 3.30pm.
  • Sid Bowfin’s Christmas Classics 1.50pm – 2.20pm and 4pm – 4.30pm.
  • National Elf Service 1pm – 1.30pm, 2.30pm – 3pm and 4.30pm – 5pm.

Location: Pavements Shopping Centre

  • Chesterfield Museum – 12pm – 4.30 pm (Old Massarella’s Unit)

Location: Outside old Marks & Spencer

  • Pantonic All Stars Steel Band 12pm – 12.30pm, 1.30pm – 2pm  and 3.30pm – 4pm.

Location: Crooked Spire Church

  • A Festival of Christmas Trees 12pm – 5.30pm.

Please note: this programme is subject to last minute changes.

For more information, activities and guides to your perfect Christmas, visit our Christmas in Chesterfield page. 

Christmas Lights Switch On Chesterfield

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Why should I start a career in manufacturing and engineering in Chesterfield?

Do you enjoy making things, or using maths and science to solve problems? How about checking for accuracy? Or making sure customers get the best service? If any of these relate, a career in manufacturing and engineering might be right for you.

There are plenty of positions to explore in the sector. However, for many people, it’s often only the warehouse-based roles that first come to mind.

In fact, the sector is so varied, we’re sure you will find an area to suit your skills. Especially in Chesterfield, where 4,000 people are employed in manufacturing and engineering companies.

Read on to hear from individuals about their experiences of working in the sector.

So, what roles can I choose from?

Careers in manufacturing and engineering can range from machine operator to quality assurance or business administrator to electrical engineer. The list goes on! Here are just 5 roles available locally that you could consider.

1. I could be: An Apprentice Fitter

Josh Henshaw is currently undertaking his Level 3 Engineering apprenticeship with his role as an apprentice Fitter at MSE Hiller. A typical day in this role might include visual inspections of machines or test running them to identify any problems and writing reports. Josh tells us:

Man inspecting machines

Josh Henshaw, MSE Hiller

“I decided to become an apprentice as it allows me the opportunity to experience working life and progress physically, while also continuing my education. I am enjoying my career in manufacturing and engineering as it allows me to be hands-on. It also encourages me to use multiple skills at once, like problem-solving, communication, creativity and using my initiative. I face new challenges daily, and the skills help develop you personally as well as in work. I have nothing but praise for the industry.”

2. I could be: A Water Civil Engineer Apprentice

Earthson Edison Xaviour is an apprentice Water Civil Engineer working for AECOM Chesterfield. A Water Civil Engineer designs and builds water-based projects, such as water treatment, sewerage and flood defence structures. Earthson Xaviour said:

Man sitting at a computer with google maps open

Earthson Edison Xaviour, AECOM

“I am passionate about the water recourses sector because this sector is extremely impactful. Engineers involved have an important role in the betterment of individuals and communities. I chose to do an apprenticeship because it would allow me to apply my academic knowledge and develop innovative solutions for problems. By selecting this course of study, I was able to explore a sector that I am passionate about, gain hands-on experience, and earn a degree in the process.”

Search career in manufacturing and engineering opportunities at AECOM Chesterfield…

3. I could be: A Business Administration Apprentice

Abi Lawson works in customer services for United Cast Bar as a Business Admin apprentice, which involves providing office support such as data input. She said:

Woman with blonde hair sitting at a desk with a computer

Abi Lawson, United Cast Bar

“I’m learning a range of different skills and meeting a range of different people from all over the world. So, even though I’m based in the customer service department, I’m getting the chance to work in a range of different departments alongside it. I can focus on the business side of things, working in the manufacturing and engineering sector and then switch it up and focus on the admin work my role brings me. I’m very passionate about where I work and what I do within United Cast Bar. As an apprentice, you are being pushed out of your comfort zone and being made to integrate into an environment that you have never been in before.”

Search career in manufacturing and engineering opportunities at United Cast Bar…

4. I could be: A Quality Practitioner Apprentice

Also an apprentice at United Cast Bar, Harry Snell is a Level 4 Quality Practitioner apprentice. This role involves ensuring that an organisation is meeting regulations and helping develop processes for this. He explained:

Man in orange high vis and yellow hard hat stood working with a steel bar

Harry Snell, United Cast Bar

“Working in the manufacturing and engineering sector can be fun as well as testing, and within this industry you’re able to learn a whole new skill set as well as meet and interact with new people. Even though I am part of the quality team, I interact with other departments and learn what it’s like to be in the sector.

“I am very passionate about my apprenticeship as it allows me to learn all about how a quality team and a business works from within. At United Cast Bar, as an apprentice you are challenged every day to complete new tasks and learn new skills. This has allowed me to grow and become more mature, as you are put into an environment that you have never been a part of. As I am learning all about quality systems and standards it’s showing me all about how a production business operates and this is something that I enjoy doing and learning about.

“My role at United Cast Bar is half office based and half shop floor based which is amazing as I love the flexibility that it has to offer. It has also given me the opportunity to see how things are produced. I can see all the extra work behind production, like all the standards and rules that businesses must comply to. In my opinion this is the best sector to be part of.”

5. I could be: an Engineer

Having completed her apprenticeship, Lauren Turner holds a Civil Engineering Degree Apprenticeship and works for AECOM. Civil Engineers design and oversee the building of structures like roads, railways and power plants. Lauren tells us:

Young woman sitting at a computer and smiling at the camera

“Working in the engineering sector is both challenging and rewarding. So far in my career I have worked on a wide range of projects – from assessing historic railway structures to designing components for a nuclear submarine dry dock. Earlier in my apprenticeship my job role was predominantly based around creating technical drawings and sketches. As I progressed through my apprenticeship and developed my knowledge and theory, I moved into the assessment and then design of structures which is predominantly based around undertaking calculations using both maths and computer programmes.

“In addition to technical based work, I have also gained site experience during my career. I began by assisting with inspections on site. As I developed within my career I moved onto supervising on site and planning/coordinating inspections. For females who are interested in getting into the industry – don’t be put off by the misconception that it is a male based industry. In my short career so far, the number of female colleagues I work with had increased vastly. Hopefully it will continue to do so as more females get into engineering whether it be through an apprenticeship or otherwise!”

Interested?

Two men working with the slogan 'Find your apprenticeship' written across the image

If you’re feeling excited about the possibility of a career in manufacturing and engineering, there are lots of apprenticeship providers in Chesterfield that you can check out. You could also visit Chesterfield College for one of their Apprenticeship Advice Evenings or get involved with Made in Chesterfield. Whatever role you’re interested in, Chesterfield is a brilliant place to start your career.

Browse apprenticeship vacancies in Chesterfield…

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Chesterfield Champions shortlisted in the inaugural unLTD Business Awards

Several businesses in the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have been shortlisted in the unLTD Business Awards.

The inaugural unLTD Business Awards celebrate the best Start Ups, SMEs and Entrepreneurs in the South Yorkshire region who are helping to drive the local economy forward.

Chesterfield-based CMP Legal, a niche commercial law firm that specialises in corporate, commercial, dispute resolution and employment law has been shortlisted as a Finalist for the Legal Company of the Year Award at the ceremony.

Stacey Pocock, Co-Founder of CMP Legal said: “We are delighted to be shortlisted as a Finalist for the Legal Company of the Year Award at the unLTD Business Awards 2023 and I’m very proud of every single team member who has contributed to our success.

“We’ve been in business for just under three years and to be nominated alongside such well known legal firms is a testament to the impact that CMP Legal has had on the legal services market, since we emerged onto the scene.”

CMP Legal Team

CMP Legal team

In addition, Redbrik Estate Agents has been shortlisted for Property & Construction Company of the Year. SMH Group has also made it onto the list of finalists in the Finance & Accountancy Company of the Year category.

Latsly, another Chesterfield Champion, The Children’s Hospital Charity has been nominated as a finalist in the Best Not For Profit, Charity or Social Enterprise category.

The winners will be announced at the unLTD Business Awards on 30th November 2023 at the Peddler Warehouse in Sheffield. The awards will be hosted by The Chase’s Paul Sinha and will feature entertainment from local musicians, DJs and circus performers.

Find out more about how your organisation could become part of Chesterfield’s vibrant business community. 

CMP Legal, SMH Group, Redbrik Estate Agents, and The Children’s Hospital Charity support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

View of the Crooked Spire from above

Image courtesy of Derbyshire Economic Partnership

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Spireites put Chesterfield on the map with more than half a million viewers for FA Cup fixture

Chesterfield Football Club is celebrating its part in raising the profile of our town, following the club’s recent televised fixture in the Emirates FA Cup.

More than half a million people tuned in to ITV 1 for the game on Sunday, 5th November which saw the Spireites pick up a 1-0 win against Portsmouth, a team which currently sits two divisions above Chesterfield.

There was an average figure of 557,000 viewers for the match, with the audience peaking at 798,000. The coverage also provided many of the town’s businesses which sponsor the club with national exposure.

Commenting on the benefits of such high-profile media coverage, Dom Stevens, Destination Chesterfield manager, said: “It was wonderful to see the Spireites triumph in front of a national television audience, and the coverage certainly helped to put Chesterfield on the map. 

“The club continues to play a major role in attracting visitors to our town from across the UK, bolstering our independent businesses. 

“We wish Chesterfield FC the best of luck in the next round of the FA Cup, and in their push for promotion back to the Football League, which will further help in raising the profile of our town.”

Spireites Chief Executive, John Croot added: “There is no doubt that there are major benefits for the town as a whole, including the local business community, when the club does well. 

“With attendances averaging around the 7,500-mark this season, there is a feel-good factor around the place and long may that continue!”

The Spireites have another home fixture coming up in the FA Cup on Sunday, 3rd December when they welcome Leyton Orient to the SMH Group Stadium in the 2nd round.

Find out more about visiting Chesterfield here.

Chesterfield FC supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Chesterfield FA Cup match

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Chesterfield Champions win prestigious Derbyshire Business Awards

Two businesses in the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have taken home prestigious accolades at East Midlands Chamber’s Derbyshire Business Awards.

The ceremony recognised East Midlands Chamber members across 13 categories, ranging from Excellence in Innovation and Environmental Impact at organisational level through to individual honours for Entrepreneur of the Year and Apprentice of the Year, in addition to the overall Business of the Year winner.

Chesterfield’s EcoTech Engineers won the award for Outstanding Growth (Sponsored by Amazon), while Rose Cottage Doggy Day Care took home the accolade for Excellence in Innovation (sponsored by Rolls-Royce).

Finalists, chosen by a judging panel of the Chamber’s senior leadership and board of directors, as well as sponsors, discovered their fate during a gala dinner attended by 350 people at Derbyshire County Cricket Club.

Scott Knowles, chief executive of East Midlands Chamber, said: “The winners of our Business Awards are testament to the resilience, ingenuity and hunger for growth within the Derbyshire business community, which never ceases to amaze.

“Despite some of the relentless challenges that have been thrown their way, our region’s businesses continue to find new ways of succeeding and contributing to the communities in which they are based.

“It’s always important to celebrate these achievements and shout about the great things happening right here in Derbyshire. We know it’s a fantastic place to do business and these organisations are shining examples.”

The Derbyshire Business Awards – one of three awards hosted by the Chamber, along with Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire – were hosted by former badminton world champion Gail Emms MBE and featured live entertainment from high-energy party band Central Avenue.

A raffle was held to raise funds for the Chamber Charitable Fund, which comprises president Stuart Dawkins’ three chosen charities for this year – Foundation Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Community Foundation, and Nottinghamshire Community Foundation.

chamber business awards 2023 rose cottage

Winners of Derbyshire Business Awards 2023, in association with headline partner Mazars

Business Improvement Through Technology (sponsored by Purpose Media)

Coach Hire Comparison

Community Impact (sponsored by University of Derby)

Derventio Housing Trust

Outstanding Growth (sponsored by Amazon)

EcoTech Engineers

Excellence in Collaboration (sponsored by ITS Technology Group)

Colleague Box and Blue Light Card

Environmental Impact (sponsored by Futures Housing Group)

HSG UK

Commitment to People Development (sponsored by think3)

Midland Lead

Apprentice of the Year (sponsored by Toyota Manufacturing UK)

Leah Bancroft – Longbow Bars & Restaurants

Entrepreneur of the Year (sponsored by East Midlands Manufacturing Network)

Steven Thai – Ocean King

Education and Business Partnership (sponsored by Concertus)

EMA Training

Excellence in Customer Service (sponsored by Howden)

Reformed IT

Excellence in International Trade (sponsored by East Midlands Freeport)

Bloc Digital

Small Business of the Year (sponsored by University of Derby)

Bloc Digital

Excellence in Innovation (sponsored by Rolls-Royce)

Rose Cottage Doggy Daycare

Business of the Year (sponsored by Mazars)

Midland Lead

EcoTech Engineers and Rose Cottage Doggy Day Care support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Derbyshire Business Awards 2023 winners

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