A North Yorkshire chemical company has continued to strengthen its support of young people in employment by completing a trio of apprenticeships with the recruitment of two new students. Madison Heigold of Keighley joins Airedale Chemical in Cross Hills as marketing assistant after recently completed a degree in media and communications from Manchester Metropolitan University, and will combine learning modules set by apprentice provider, VQ Solutions, with practical activities which feed into Airedale Chemical’s business objectives. 

Joining Madison is Max Chadwick, who has taken the position of lean manufacturing apprentice, working on the filling lines, preparing products for distribution and organising goods for transport. He will complete the academic element of the course remotely instead of on campus. 

Max says: “Every week I am taking on more responsibilities which I’m really enjoying and can feel my confidence growing with each new task I take on. I hope that I will also be able to gain experience throughout other departments and learn more about the business side of Airedale Chemical as well and eventually become a permanent member of the team.”

Madison adds: “This is my first full-time position and I am looking forward to putting into practice all the elements I’ve been studying to make a real difference at Airedale Chemical. 

“Initially, I will be concentrating on implementing a new internal communications campaign, creating content for the website and managing our social media channels. Once I have completed the level three apprenticeship I will also be accredited by the Chartered Institute of Marketing. 

“To be part of a successful, local business, reporting directly to senior staff, provides important experience which is much more valuable than classroom learning alone.”

Madison joins Lucy Sage, safety, health and environmental technician apprentice who began her apprenticeship in 2020. 

She explains: “I have really enjoyed taking on more responsibilities and feel that I’m contributing to the efficient running of the department. I am applying what I’m taught into practice which is the best way for me to learn. I’m hoping to study for a NEBOSH diploma in advanced health and safety and enjoying a long career at Airedale Chemical.

Airedale Chemical has been based in Cross Hills since 1994 and provides chemicals and contract manufacturing to markets including agriculture, dairy, water treatment and waste management. 

Group CEO of Airedale Chemical, adds: “We have been keen to support the apprenticeship scheme in our community as it’s a fantastic way to offer practical experience to students looking to take their first steps into the working world. It’s also very exciting for us to bring in these talented young people who have so much to offer the company in return. Madison, Max and Lucy have made a real contribution to the company already and we’re looking forward to seeing how they continue to develop.”