Attracting talent beyond the big cities

Earlier this month, Nick Boulton, chief executive of the TRA attended the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) – Institute of Carpenters (IOC) Timber Industry College Hub Event which was hosted by West Suffolk College and the Eastern Education Group.

Over 150 students attended the event and gained insights from a range of speakers including representatives from English Heritage, Seamans, TDUK, TRA, Medite SmartPly and the American Hardwood Export Council.

Nick Boulton, said:

“Every industry needs young people coming through with the right qualifications, so we have been working with the IOC and CITB to visit technical colleges and encourage people to come into the timber sector.

“The day was all about careers and education within the industry and everyone coming together to promote opportunities. An apprenticeship is a good pathway to gain valuable experience and skills before they enter an industry that is always looking for talented individuals.

“Many employers value experience, and with the right work experience, the next generation of carpentry professionals can seamlessly form a lifelong career.

“It is rewarding to be able to speak to future carpentry professionals and to share our knowledge and experience with them.”

Brian Tunbridge, a carpentry lecturer at West Suffolk College, said:

“It was an informative day and the students heard lots of new information that can help them in the future.

“Traditionally events like this only happen in big cities like Birmingham and London so it was a real privilege to be able to host and getting technical specialists in to share their knowledge with the next generation was a real honour and a great coup.”

West Suffolk College is just one of ten colleges nationally to be part of the IOC Mentoring Champions Programme.

Further events will take place during 2024 at colleges around the UK.