Travis Perkins has announced that Michael Dixon, Branch Operations Manager at Keyline, has become the Group’s 2,000th apprentice graduate, earning a distinction in the Level 3 First Line Manager Programme.

This follows the introduction of the apprenticeship levy in 2017 and marks a major milestone for Keyline as it develops the next generation of the business. 

Janette Capehorn, Apprenticeship Manager at Travis Perkins plc, explained: “Travis Perkins is a leading provider of apprenticeships, so the fact that Michael is the Group’s 2,000th graduate is just a very proud moment for both him and everyone at Keyline. As Michael demonstrates, apprenticeships are a fantastic way to upskill and help build the workforce for the future,” .

The theme for National Apprenticeship Week this year is Skills for life. Dixon commented: “I've really enjoyed the experience. It’s helped me perform to my highest potential; I have the right tools and mindset to manage people better. I’ve gained a lot of confidence, and have learned skills that I can actively apply both now and in the future – from time management to decision-making.”

Dixon has completed two apprenticeships in his career; the first, a Level 2 distribution apprenticeship, was a gateway into the industry. The second offered further skills development, helping him “step out of my comfort zone, moving on and taking a larger role at a different branch.”

He advises anyone considering an apprenticeship: “If you’re looking to push forward in your career and need the tools to do that, then an apprenticeship is the best approach. You learn so much from it.” 

Dixon is only one in a long line of apprenticeship graduate success stories at Keyline. With over 40 apprenticeship programmes on offer ranging from branch to boardroom roles, there’s a skills development opportunity for every colleague that can help them grow in their career. 

Keyline is also supporting the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) campaign to make a material difference, dedicated to increasing awareness of the building materials sector. To help combat the skills shortage merchants are facing, the BMF pledge to achieve 15,000 apprentices across the BMF membership by 2030.