A CUTTING-edge technology company is offering jobs to local, young graduates in a bid to address a shortage in the area.

Glideology develops software and electronic equipment for clients ranging from innovators to international companies.

With a team of seven people, the company moved to Malvern in March 2017.

Glideology recently took on two graduates on placement; both are from Malvern and have been enticed to return to the town by the offer of an internship.

Joshua Monk is a software engineer working on embedded control systems and, after being with the firm for six months on placement, has now been offered a full-time position.

Sam Turner, who started out as a traditional art degree student at the University of Worcester, now specialises in technical design and branding. He has now been employed part-time by Glideology for eighteen months as an intern, and after graduation is looking forward to a full-time position at the firm.

The graduates received some funding through a graduate grants scheme run by Malvern Hill District Council in partnership with several universities. It offers up to £2,000 towards the costs of recruiting an undergraduate or graduate.

The aim is to support the growth of small and medium-sized businesses by addressing higher level skills shortages.

Gavin Allen of Glideology, said: “I was aware that there is a shortage of graduates qualified in digital media and software languages in the market and was keen to enable locally-born students to remain in the area.

“For other companies considering taking on a graduate I would advise them to seriously consider the scheme.

It has been easy to apply for, helped us as a local business and provided two under-graduates with the opportunity to learn and gain relevant experience in their chosen fields.”

David Chambers, the council's leader and portfolio holder for economic development, said: “Taking on a graduate is not only beneficial in developing their skills and experience but also for the business itself. Through mutual support and hard-work, businesses will be able thrive through development of a knowledgeable and loyal workforce.

“Our priority is to retain young people in the area and give them access to the fantastic career opportunities available locally, and Glideology is another example of the brilliant businesses we have in the district.”