Introducing the New WOMA Subcommittees at NAS and the IOC

We’re pleased to announce the launch of four new subcommittees under the Wood Occupations & Materials Alliance (WOMA) banner, a joint initiative between the National Association of Shopfitters and Interior Contractors (NAS) and the Institute of Contracts (IOC). These subcommittees mark a significant step forward in how we organise our collective efforts across membership, industry standards, and the wood occupations – including carpentry, joinery, and shopfitting.

Each subcommittee brings together members and stakeholders with a shared focus, giving our industry clearer channels to shape the direction of the association and drive meaningful change.

Membership & Marketing

This subcommittee will develop and review strategies for growing and retaining membership across all grades, tiers, and categories, while overseeing marketing, communications, and public relations activities. It will promote the value and benefits of membership to prospective and current members, monitor membership trends and report findings to the Council/Directors, and work to strengthen the NAS and IOC brand and visibility within the construction and wood occupations sectors. The group will also identify and recommend new membership categories, products, or benefits as appropriate, and support campaigns, events, and initiatives that raise the profile of both organisations.

Competitions & Events

This subcommittee will plan, develop, and oversee the NAS and IOC’s full programme of competitions and events, ensuring they are engaging and reflect the highest standards of the professions. It will promote participation among members and non-members alike, and develop and maintain relationships with sponsors, partners, and venues. The group will also review and evaluate competitions and events to drive continuous improvement, ensure everything is delivered safely, professionally, and within agreed budgets, and help raise the profile of both organisations through high-quality, well-attended events.

Policy & Influence

This subcommittee will develop draft policy positions for the NAS and IOC arising from changes in legislation, regulation, and sector guidance, for approval by the Council/Directors. It will also create an open, non-judgemental channel where members can share their experiences, supporting cultural learning that improves the sector overall, and will commission improvement projects, audits, or evaluations as required to achieve its objectives.

Skills & Competence

This subcommittee will develop and maintain the NAS and IOC’s competence frameworks and professional standards, and oversee the CPD programme to ensure it meets member and sector needs. It will engage with awarding organisations, government, and sector bodies on qualifications and skills policy, and promote the importance of skills development and lifelong learning within the carpentry profession. The group will also monitor developments in wood occupations technology, materials, and practice, reflecting these in frameworks and standards, and support the pipeline of skilled craftspeople through engagement with education and training providers.

Get Involved

These subcommittees are being launched because we believe the best ideas and the strongest outcomes come from active member participation. If you’re interested in contributing to any of these groups, we’d love to hear from you.

To register your interest, please complete our Expression of Interest form.

Look out for further details soon on meeting schedules and each subcommittee’s initial priorities.