Orbital 10 welcome new apprentices in new Walsall office

IT services provider Orbital 10 has relocated to new premises in Walsall while welcoming two new apprentices to its workforce.  Aaron Hall and Jazmin Robotham are working with the organisation’s IT support hub team at their Lichfield Street offices in the town centre.

Aaron, an IT support apprentice and Jazmin, a customer service apprentice began their roles after completing a supported internship programme at Walsall College.  Supported internships enable students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) who have an education, health and care (EHC) plan to gain work experience while receiving additional personal and professional development support.

Describing his vision for the company’s future, Director, Mike Hobbs said: “This is an exciting chapter for Orbital 10 as we move into larger offices and expand our team with the addition of Aaron and Jazmin.  We proudly advocate greater workplace inclusion for individuals with learning difficulties and disabilities, including those with neurodivergent conditions.

Mike Hobbs continued: “Partnering with a provider like Walsall College means we can encourage those with additional needs to fulfil their potential.  Through our tailored training and mentorship, we hope to see more apprentices across our organisation progress into degree studies and industry roles aligned with their specialist skill sets.

“At the same time, talent development programmes like supported internships, placements and apprenticeships will help support our continued business growth.”

During their apprenticeship, Aaron and Jazmin will learn about Orbital 10’s in-house infrastructure, covering areas such as cybersecurity, networking and PC maintenance and repair.  While Aaron will focus on developing his technical skills in these areas, Jazmin will hone her customer care and office management expertise.

Both will receive personalised support and training that will help them identify and work towards their long-term career goals.

22-year-old Aaron from Walsall said he was excited to be working full-time after finishing college.

“This is a great place to work,” he said.  “Everyone here been friendly and helpful.   I’m still learning the basics around IT systems and electronics but improving all the time.

“My supported internship was with Walsall Council and it helped me believe in myself and what I can do.

“I love seeing and hearing about the different projects and job roles here.  They motivate me to do my best as an apprentice and aim for a successful career in IT.”

22-year-old Jazmin who has cerebral palsy is also relishing her role.

“I’ve always liked talking to different people so this is the perfect job for me,” she said.

“It’s nice to know and show others that my disability has not stopped me from doing the same things as others.  If I can do it then, with some adaptations, others can too.”

Sales Account Manager, George Salvin who has been line managing Aaron and Jazmin praised their progress.

“Aaron and Jazmin are making excellent strides in their roles,” he said.  “I’ve no doubt they will achieve great things in their careers.

“Working with apprentices who were previously supported interns has been a learning curve for me, but one that’s been highly beneficial.

Making workplace adjustments for neurodivergent individuals and those with SEND needs empowers them to work to the best of their abilities.  This all contributes to a fantastic office culture where everyone feels they belong.”

Find out more about supported internships here.