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MCFT operates throughout the UK, servicing high end commercial kitchens in business, education, leisure and healthcare. It also has a growing presence in the Gulf region with offices in Dubai, Qatar and Saudi Arabia as well as the Netherlands and Belgium.
In 2018, MCFT’s in-house technical training academy was awarded City & Guilds status and their leadership academy was recognised by the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM).
Despite the restrictions of Covid, 22 technicians have completed the qualification in the UK along with 19 in the Gulf since 2018.
Chris Craggs, CEO states:
“This is not an industry with a ready pool of qualified personnel – and those who are qualified are of an older generation. If we want to continue to satisfy the growing number of customers who appreciate our service, we have to “grow our own” – and the process benefits all – customers, colleagues, coaches and the business.”
About the scheme
The ‘Assured’ scheme is a joint venture between City & Guilds and ILM that recognises world class in-house training.
MCFT was awarded ‘Assured’ status for 4 programmes including Leadership Academy (UK and Gulf region), Commercial Kitchen Technician (Gulf region), Commercial Catering Engineer (UK) and Commercial Fridge Engineer (UK).
This means the programmes have been assessed against best practice standards with 5 key components: design and delivery, planning and management, employee/learner support, quality assurance; evaluation and continuous development.
The training that the engineers receive is unparalleled in the industry ensuring an efficient and effective service for customers. All employees, from apprentices to those aspiring to senior leadership roles will be able to access at least one of the programmes, confident that they are undergoing high quality, thorough training and development that will benefit them for the rest of their career – and they’ll have a City & Guilds certificate to prove it.
What does a typical day look like for trainees?
Every day is spent in different locations with different customers – from schools and colleges to commercial kitchens at well-known sporting venues. Engineers drive their own MCFT van, shadowing a designated coach. They also have hands-on learning time at MCFT’s off-site training facility in Berkshire. A portfolio of evidenced competence is built through a structured learning programme whilst carrying out preventive maintenance, call outs and repairs on a variety of commercial catering equipment.
Sam’s story
Sam is currently going through the programme which takes 2 years to complete. With no engineering experience, he was attracted by the family feel of the company and was keen to do something hands-on rather than office based. His customer service background has proved valuable in building relationships, and he has gained recognition from some demanding customers.
About MCFT
MCFT operates throughout the UK, servicing high end commercial kitchens in business, education, sports and leisure and healthcare. It also has a growing presence in the Gulf region with offices in Dubai, Qatar and Saudi Arabia as well as the Netherlands and Belgium, servicing restaurant chains and hotels as well as businesses, education and healthcare.
