The award, which recognises outstanding achievement and success through training and development, was presented by Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey, at the Belfast Harbour Commissioners’ Office, to the Antrim-based company.

Sir Reg said: "This is a great success for Schrader Electronics and a great example of how upskilling and training your workforce can maximise profits, reduce costs and strengthen the skills base of your employees."

Part of the US giant Tomkins PLC, Schrader is the market leader in the design and manufacture of Remote Tyre Pressure Monitoring products.

During 2008, Schrader Electronics faced a need to significantly improve its production efficiency. The company’s research showed its decline in efficiency was largely down to a dramatic increase in scrap product and it decided to invest in operator training to reduce this level of waste.

Commenting on the programme, Paul Gardener, Manufacturing Director, said: "The results of this programme have been overwhelming. The main outcome was a reduction in the cost of scrap with a saving of over £1 million. Other measurable benefits not expected were a decrease in accident rates and an improvement in housekeeping standards. On the non-tangible side we have also seen an improvement in the time it takes to implement change, operators are now working with us and there is greater employee participation."

The training programme was designed and delivered internally and focused on areas such as incorrect handling of parts and not following procedures when machines failed.

Since 2008, 80 employees have completed the NVQ Level 2 training programme.