GTK

GTK is a UK-based manufacturer specialising in high-performance electronic solutions, including custom cable assemblies, connectors, displays and full manufacturing services such as PCB enclosures and assembly. With more than 30 years of experience, GTK combines UK engineering expertise with global manufacturing capability to deliver tailored, high-quality products across sectors including aerospace, automotive, medical and industrial markets. As part of the Volex Group, GTK benefits from expanded global resources and advanced interconnect technologies.

During a period of significant growth, GTK needed to recruit skilled Cable Assemblers to support increasing production demand. However, the business faced challenges attracting experienced candidates due to the limited local talent pool and the salary levels typical within subcontract manufacturing. GTK required a practical and scalable solution to build a capable workforce while maintaining their high quality standards.

Tasks

The objective was to create a sustainable hiring approach that would allow GTK to expand their production team despite the shortage of experienced cable assemblers. The solution needed to increase candidate availability, maintain quality expectations and provide a reliable pipeline of talent that could grow with the business.

Actions

To address the shortage of experienced candidates, we worked closely with GTK to introduce a trainee-focused hiring model supported by a structured recruitment and training process.

We advised GTK to broaden their hiring criteria and recruit trainees with the right aptitude rather than focusing only on candidates with previous cable assembly experience. Together we developed a group assessment centre model that allowed hiring managers to evaluate multiple candidates efficiently while assessing practical ability and learning potential.

Each assessment centre included a welcome session and company overview delivered by management, visual accuracy tests to assess attention to detail, and a practical trade test where candidates built a cable under guidance. Candidates also took part in a production facility tour to gain a clear understanding of the working environment.

Alongside this recruitment process, GTK implemented a 12 week internal training programme designed to develop successful candidates into skilled cable assemblers. The focus shifted towards identifying qualities such as dexterity, listening skills, adaptability and willingness to learn rather than relying solely on existing technical experience.

Results

The new approach allowed GTK to significantly expand their workforce during a critical growth phase while maintaining strong production standards.

The first assessment centre resulted in eight successful hires, and the model consistently delivered between six and eight hires per assessment centre thereafter. This created a repeatable and scalable hiring process that provided GTK with a reliable pipeline of trained talent.

The programme also produced strong individual development outcomes. One notable example was a former tattoo artist who joined through the trainee programme. After two years at GTK, they progressed into a highly skilled cable harness assembler role and achieved EASA certification.