SKILLS GAP
A training programme has been launched by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) to help firms work more closely with schools and inspire future generations of building services engineers. The BESA School Engagement and Engineering Discovery Programme is fully funded by the Association and was developed by school engagement specialist Built Environment Skills in Schools, which has worked with more than 4,000 schools across the UK. The 12-week programme is designed to give engineers and business owners the skills and knowledge they need to engage effectively with their local schools and promote career opportunities in the building services industry. The training will be delivered in three tranches with eight places available on the September intake, another eight in BESA training programme aims to inspire future generations
January 2025 and a third cohort setting out on their engagement journey in April. Members will have the chance to work with experienced educators to gain insights into engaging the interest of school children and inspiring them to want to work in a sector that can make a huge difference to major social issues like climate change, air quality, and health and wellbeing. As well as helping to shape a future generation of engineers and improve the flow of skilled workers into the sector, this exercise can also have
major benefits for existing staff who gain valuable communication and presentation skills – not to mention improved confidence. Stuart Rattray, Head of Skills & Policy at BESA, said, “Early adopters can demonstrate their commitment to education and community involvement. It also gives them the opportunity to spot and nurture young talent early, creating a direct pipeline of future apprentices and employees.” www.thebesa.com/school-engagement- and-engineering-discovery
Electrical sector skills gap persists in latest quarterly survey
Electrotechnical and engineering services businesses continue to struggle to find suitably qualified candidates to fill vacancies in their organisations, according to the latest quarterly Building Engineering Business Survey. The survey is carried out by the Electrical Contractors Association (ECA) in partnership with the Building Engineering Services Association, standards body SELECT and the Scottish & Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation. Of 125 businesses surveyed, 46% are currently looking to fill vacancies in their organisations. Of those respondents, 47% said that candidate pay expectations are too high, and 46% said applicants consistently lack sufficient knowledge or skills for the job. One respondent commented, “Potential electrical apprentices are encouraged
to stay on at school. Youngsters coming into the industry struggle to cope with the academics of the electrical courses, and consequently leave.” Another said, “One of the biggest problems is that applicants are not as skilled as they think they are. In some cases, they are nowhere near where they should be.” Considering these findings, ECA has welcomed recent comments from Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson MP encouraging more young people to consider apprenticeships as a viable alternative to university. Andrew Eldred, ECA Chief Operating Officer, said, “ECA welcomes the Education Secretary’s ambition to see more young people qualify as electricians.
“For her statements to have any sort of impact, her government must work closely with industry leaders, educators and business owners – to listen to electricians themselves about what to do to make this happen. “Key Labour Government missions such as new housing and net zero will not succeed without taking steps to address these shortfalls at both national and local levels.” www.eca.co.uk
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