National Apprenticeship Week: Wigan coachbuilder shares senior manager’s 30-year success story

Paul Wilcock, Production Manager at Wilcox Limousines, based in Wigan, joined the business in July 1993 as an apprentice aged 16. After some light encouragement from his father, Paul joined the team with a fascination for vehicles and a strong work ethic — a combination that would eventually see him rise through the ranks and head up production across the entire company.

Now a vital component of operations and a role model to his employees, Paul consistently attributes this success to the hands-on learning and guidance received during his time as an apprentice, which he described as a “fantastic opportunity and one long-learning experience”.

National Apprenticeship Week (6-12th February) is an opportunity for the education and skills sector to celebrate the achievements of apprentices around the country and the positive impact they make to communities, businesses, and the wider economy.

Wilcox Limousines is currently in the process of refining its brand new apprenticeship scheme, which is set to launch later this year — looking to offer educational opportunities across all aspects of vehicle production.

Paul said: “When I finished school, my father encouraged me to get an apprenticeship and learn a trade. Of course, I always valued my father’s opinion and looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing. Since being at Wilcox, I have worked my way through the ranks, holding a variety of roles including Apprentice, Shop Floor Assistant, Paint Shop Manager, Workshop Coordinator and now, Production Manager. I can honestly say this has been an incredible journey of learning and progression and I would never be where I am today if I hadn't started as an apprentice.”

Describing his first day, Paul said: “I remember the day I started like it was yesterday. I met with a friend at 8.45am, who also got a job at the factory – there were six of us in total. Of course, it was daunting, but the comradery was there right from the off — and a bacon buttie at 10am certainly helped calm the nerves! Wilcox Limousines is a family-run business and that was obvious from the start. I have always had a voice here and there really is no ceiling in terms of progression — as long as you have the right attitude and work ethic.”

Wilcox Limousines is run by second and third-generation family members and employs more than 70 staff across two locations in Wigan and Northampton. The brand is widely recognised for its constantly innovative designs, creative flair and years of experience producing first-class funeral service vehicles.

Paul said: “If you are passionate about something and an apprenticeship opportunity is put in front of you, I can’t recommend it enough. There is no better way to gain hands-on experience and you feel like a valued member of the team right from the off. There is a lot of pressure on young people to go to university or college these days, however, that is certainly not the only way to have a great career and there are some amazing opportunities out there.”