SILTEQ Strengthens Workforce Through Specialist Apprenticeship Partnership with S&A Academy
S&A Academy is proud to share an update on its continuing partnership with SILTEQ, a global leader in the supply of industrial silicone and fluorosilicone compounds. The collaboration centres around the delivery of the Level 3 Polymer Processing Technician Apprenticeship and reflects SILTEQ’s ongoing commitment to developing a highly skilled, future-ready technical workforce.
With a history spanning more than 35 years, SILTEQ has built a strong reputation for providing tailored solutions to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) worldwide. Its decision to invest in the Polymer Processing Technician programme underlines the company’s long-term strategy to grow internal expertise, support innovation, and retain high-potential talent within a niche scientific field.
Delivered by S&A Academy, a national provider of specialist Science, Technology, and Leadership apprenticeships, the programme is designed to equip employees with technical knowledge, hands-on experience, and sector-specific skills that directly benefit their day-to-day roles. The Academy’s employer-first approach ensures that apprenticeships are tailored to meet business needs while supporting individual learner progression.
Through the apprenticeship, learners are gaining vital experience in areas such as testing methodologies, data analysis, technical reporting, and formulation development. SILTEQ’s internal mentoring structure and commitment to off-the-job learning time have played a significant role in supporting learner success. Early progress reviews indicate that the apprentice is not only ahead of target but is also demonstrating high levels of engagement and professional growth across laboratory and production environments.
Danny Russel, Operations Director at SILTEQ, commented:
“It’s important SILTEQ continues to strengthen its strategic partnership with S&A Academy, in order to upskill our employees and continue to futureproof our business. The training we have had so far for Darcy has been first class and we look forward to exploring more opportunities in the coming months.”
The partnership reflects a shared dedication between SILTEQ and S&A Academy to building sustainable talent pipelines, futureproofing manufacturing roles, and raising the profile of technical apprenticeships in advanced materials industries.
Her instructors at S&A Academy, Steve Crompton and Rei Raz, shared reflections on her progress:
“Since starting, she has flourished in both her lessons and work. Her confidence has grown, and she now speaks competently about her role, fully supported by the SILTEQ team. She’s becoming involved in significant new projects as part of the Technical team.”
“She is receiving a great level of trust and support from the company. Her professional approach and calm personality justify that trust and are enabling her rapid growth.”
This apprenticeship initiative highlights how forward-thinking employers can harness specialist programmes to upskill their teams, support innovation, and nurture the next generation of scientific professionals.
Media Contact:
Elizabeth Wood
Marketing Assistant
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Science Academy Contact:
Jemma Perks
Managing Director
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sandaacademy.ac.uk
