A GLOBAL firm which is helping to train up a new young workforce in Inverclyde has teamed up with the local college.

Diodes Incorporated, who stepped in to take over Greenock's semiconductor plant last year and saved 300 jobs, is linking up with West College Scotland to deliver a fresh approach to the modern apprenticeship programme

Already five second year engineering apprentice are on day release over the next two years to the campus.

With their jobs now secure, the bright sparks are now working towards completing an HNC in electrical engineering to help further their career.

Diodes managing director Gerry McCarthy said: "I am delighted that West College Scotland and ourselves are now working together to not only develop young talent, but to further showcase what Inverclyde has to offer in terms of world class manufacturing and education.

"At the heart of our ambition to help Diodes’ growth and profitability is the ability of our employees to develop the skills required to manufacture very high quality, low cost semiconductor devices.

"Following the acquisition, Diodes invested significantly in new, leading edge equipment for the site.

“Our modern apprenticeship programme has always been critical to ensuring the continuation of very highly talented equipment technicians capable of maintaining highly complex machinery.”

The firm stepped into take over Texas Instruments after the plant looked set for closure, dealing a huge blow to the local jobs market and economy.

Apprentices Aimee Cooke, Michael McDermott, Scott Graham, David McLennan and Craig Cunningham will all complete the college programme over the next two years.

They are pictured along with fellow second year engineering apprentices Christopher Grierson and Lee Donald, who had both completed their HNC at the college prior to commencing their apprenticeship with Diodes.

West College Scotland principal Liz Connolly says the link will prove pivotal to providing employment opportunities for local youngsters for years to come.

She added: "Partnership working is a key strategic driver for West College Scotland, in terms of skills development within the Inverclyde area and the opportunity to partner with a multi-national organisations such as Diodes Incorporated. This provides a platform to continue the resurgence of the engineering curriculum at the Greenock Campus.

"We wish the apprentices every success in their studies and look forward to continuing the positive relationship with Diodes as we move forward.”

Diodes Incorporated sponsored the HNC electrical engineering award at this year’s graduation.