Metal-X Engineering and YTEPP partner for progress

The partnership initiated with a nine-month training programme in structural fabricating, which started on Monday, April 23, 2012. The YTEPP students will be based at Metal-X Engineering in a hands-on, modern training environment.

Giving high marks to the initiative was Mayor of Chaguanas, Orlando Nagessar, who delivered the feature address at the launch. “I was pleased to be present at the opening of the head offices of YTEPP in Chaguanas recently and this partnership with Metal-X will present further opportunities for training, job creation and sustainable development for our nation’s youth. I expect great success from this programme and I hope that other companies will follow the sterling example that has been set by Metal-X in providing a pathway for young people,” said Mayor Nagessar.

The Chaguanas mayor disclosed that a new area had been identified for the development of a business estate in Chaguanas and expected that a number of exciting prospects for employment in all sectors, including fabrication, would come with the growth of this area.

The YTEPP/Metal-X training programme will focus on structural fabricating and will expose the students to trade techniques such as drilling and cutting, as well as advanced skills in structural design and fabrication, shielded arc metal welding and plate fabrication.

Churaman Suchit of Metal-X Engineering, indicated that the company has also developed on-site classroom facilities for the students that will expose them to a combination of theoretical and practical knowledge in the creation of well-rounded and skilled tradesmen and craftsmen.

Framing the vision behind the initiative was Labib Najjar, chief executive officer, Metal-X Engineering: “This partnership is in honour of my parents who founded this company 53 years ago. It is focused on giving new life and growth to the industry and satisfying the needs of the high-in-demand and very specialised area of structural fabrication. Our company has amassed a wealth of experience and knowledge in this sector and we want to share this expertise with the next generation of industry leaders. This partnership with YTEPP is exactly in line with our vision for creating opportunities for training and job creation to the benefit of our dynamic young people. In fact, we hope to employ some of these trainees at Metal-X.”

YTEPP Chairman, Chandar Gupta Supersad, was enthusiastic about the ‘‘Partnering for Progress’’ initiative. “YTEPP is always striving to deliver to the needs of the industry, including the demand for quality personnel with the right combination of attitude and aptitude. These students are being presented with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity because Metal-X Engineering is recognised as a leader and pioneer in the construction and fabrication sectors. It is our shared vision that these students will be moulded into more than just skilled workers, but also into empowered citizens that will design and construct the future of Trinidad and Tobago,” Supersad said.

YTEPP student Reuben Phipps, 21, was looking forward to beginning his training: “I want to become versed in every aspect of structural fabricating and I think that the combination of YTEPP and Metal-X Engineering is the ideal environment for my personal and professional development. I want to gain knowledge and expertise, and one day I hope to open my own company. When I do, I will follow the example set by Mr. Najjar and help develop the next generation.”

Metal X-Engineering has made its mark in the manufacture and supply of steel structures, working as sub-contractor on a number of major local and regional projects, including the Centre of Excellence in Macoya and the Bordelais Correctional Facility in S. Lucia. The company also manufactures light metal items such as diesel tanks and display stands and is the first company in the Caribbean to manufacture wheelbarrows.