From ASDA to ADSA – a former supermarket sales assistant has checked out a new career and bagged a permanent role with the Automatic Door Suppliers Association having successfully completed a two-year apprenticeship. Beth Rutherford, aged 21, from Tamworth, in Staffordshire, has been offered a permanent job with ADSA as a Training and Education Co-ordinator having completed a Highfield Level Two Diploma in Business Administration.
ADSA opened doors for Beth when she was appointed as trainee administrator at its head office in December 2019. As a leading exponent of apprenticeships, the association supported Beth to pursue her career aspirations – facilitating an apprenticeship through South Staffordshire College – providing academic learning with paid employment and on-the-job learning.
Joining ADSA meant she also crossed the threshold of a family business. Beth’s father, Steve has also worked in the entrance solutions industry for over 20 years and is now spearheading the Powered Pedestrian Door Technician Apprenticeship as the Course Practitioner at South Staffs College. Ken Price, Managing Director of ADSA, comments: “Beth has thrived during her time with us. Her confidence has increased and she is now extremely proficient. She has developed a real understanding of our members training needs and efficiently helps administer card renewals, NVQ registrations and ADSA standards training cards and certification."
“In addition, Beth has taken on responsibility for our social media engagement and has helped grow our LinkedIn presence to 1800 followers. She is fast becoming a key member of the team and we are delighted to offer her a permanent role.” Much of Beth’s apprenticeship coincided with the COVID pandemic which saw learning and assessment having to be undertaken a little differently. The emphasis on the learner to evidence their understanding and practical application key units within the programme meant that the demands were ‘intensive’, according to Beth. She adds: “I am thrilled to be offered this wonderful opportunity. ADSA is such a progressive organisation which is constantly introducing new initiatives to professionalise our industry and is keen to embrace new ways of doing things. This means that there is always something new to learn, which in turn, makes the job so enjoyable.”