Ruth Devine MBE, Managing Director of SJD Electrical, looks at why the development of specific career pathways, aligned with and delivered by quality training providers, will help to build a more competent and sustainable electrical industry.
After joining SJD in 2006, it quickly became clear we needed robust vocational training to deliver the skills needed to operate successfully. Apprenticeships proved to be the perfect solution to ensure our new and existing workers met recognised standards of occupational competence.
Our commitment to training people makes good business sense. It accelerates our growth and generates great benefits for our company, including creating a strong culture with increased performance, quality and loyalty, and reduced risk. My passion for vocational training has led me to spend countless hours beyond the day-to-day running of SJD, advocating for the skills needs of electrical contractors with both government and industry stakeholders. Recently, I’ve been particularly focused on highlighting the electrical industry’s crucial role in achieving our desired low carbon future.
The industry has faced numerous challenges over the years due to ever-changing skills systems, with a plethora of qualifications that created confusion over their value to employers. Fortunately, efforts like the creation of clear training routes by The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP) have helped streamline these qualifications, though challenges do remain.
Unscrupulous training providers have taken advantage of the confusion, offering low or no-value qualifications to unsuspecting new entrants. These packages often lead to heartbreak when learners discover they’ve spent thousands of pounds on certificates that hold no value in the job market. The recent collapse of Options Skills is a stark reminder of the need for vigilance against such practices.
Through my role as Chair of TESP, I’ve worked with industry colleagues, supportive employers and responsible training providers to develop a better understanding across industry of the necessary standards and skills for electricians. The simple message is that the Level 3 occupational standards set the benchmark of foundational competence.
The apprenticeship provides the ideal route for new entrants, while the Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA) route is designed for qualifying existing workers. The routes TESP host on the ‘Electrical Careers’ website clearly set out what aligned qualifications learners can take to achieve the recognised standards.
Quality training is paramount, yet it’s increasingly difficult for colleges and independent providers to attract and retain qualified staff. Occupational experience is essential for holistic teaching, otherwise learners may be unprepared in the workplace. Regular engagement with employers is essential to ensure industry awareness is up-to-date and training is current.
My message to fellow electrical contractors and sole traders is to carefully choose the right training and be wary of substandard offerings. Competence is crucial with the introduction of new legal requirements in the Building Safety Act from last October.
Raising standards
I’ve joined the new Industry Competence Committee, set up by the Building Safety Regulator to provide insights and guidance and monitor the competence of individuals working in the construction sector to ensure the safety and quality of all buildings.
Employers must play their part in upskilling the industry and addressing skills gaps. By supporting more new entrants, promoting electrotechnical careers and engaging with learners, we can not only enhance the skills within our own businesses but also contribute to raising standards across the wider industry.
There are full-time learners, T Level students, and apprentices seeking recruitment and work placement opportunities, so speak with your local college or training provider to explore how you can contribute.
Opportunities to train and upskill in new technology areas must be seized, or others will take the lead. The future of the electrical industry hinges on our ability to train and upskill effectively. By fostering competence and supporting structured training routes, we can ensure a skilled and ready workforce to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
Let’s work together to build a stronger, more competent, and sustainable industry.
For further information and opportunities to get involved, visit the TESP website or speak to your local training provider.
In recognition of Ruth’s outstanding contribution to championing apprenticeships and skills development, she was awarded an MBE in the King’s 2024 New Year Honours list for services to Further Education and Apprenticeships.
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