The latest of the ‘Timber Industry College Hub’ initiatives from The Institute of Carpenters (IOC) and Timber Development UK (TDUK) was held at Northampton College on 16th January. This innovative program builds connections between joinery and timber supply chain businesses, colleges, tutors, and woodworking learners and apprentices across the UK. The Timber Industry College Hubs are part of the IOC’s Mentoring Champions scheme. Supported by CITB, these hubs showcase the array of employment opportunities through presentations by specialist speakers, providing students with insights into the massive potential their qualifications and training can give them. This gathering marks a significant step in fostering collaboration and inspiring the next generation of skilled professionals.
The event commenced with a warm welcome from Joanne Philpott, Deputy Principal of Northampton College, who set an enthusiastic tone for the day. Geoff Rhodes, President of the IOC, took the stage to set the scene for over 100 learners and apprentices.
Before the programme for the day started, the opportunity was taken by Geoff Rhodes to present Northampton College with its IOC Certificate acknowledging that they had bought student learner Leo Tigwell through to achieving his Highly Commended Certificate, as one of 3 runners up in the 2024 3rd Year IOC student of the year awards. Prizes in the form of vouches with a value of over £500 were also presented, thanks to the generous sponsorship again by Reisser UK Ltd, Axminster Tools, Medite SmartPly and Ironmongery Direct.
Emma Cook from CITB then provided a comprehensive overview of the construction employment landscape, highlighting the abundant career opportunities despite the challenges in the construction industry. With the UK economy showing signs of improvement, over a quarter of a million additional construction workers will be needed by 2028. Emma emphasised the importance of investing in not only skills, but training and leadership development to meet this demand.
Mark Bradshaw Curriculum Manager – Construction & Electrical , provided an update on Delapré Abbey’s significant restoration and redevelopment work and shared insights into employment opportunities, highlighting the restoration of its 19th-century stables and the unique work experience it offers Northampton College construction students. Northampton College’s collaboration with industry partners like MY-FAB, a precision off-site MMC company, provided invaluable insight into real-life projects.
Nick Boulton from TDUK and the Trussed Rafter Association described the UK’s national and international raw material supply, sustainability and the green agenda, as well as the diverse ways timber can be processed: “Logs are like potatoes, you can use them in all sorts of different ways – whole, slices, peel, chips, even mash!”.
Roly Ward from Medite SmartPly and Neil Summers from the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) contributed their expertise on MDF and OSB production, and the significance of American hardwoods, respectively.
Mick McGuckin from Northampton-based Hervey Building Supplies offered another local perspective on employment opportunities, reinforcing the vital role of skilled workers in the construction sector.
Emma Woodward from Historic England fascinated the audience with her discussion on conservation work and the heritage sector, underscoring the importance of preserving historical structures and the incredible opportunities open to those who focus their skills and career on a niche, such as restoration.
Geoff Rhodes, President of the IOC, concluded the event, emphasising the need for continued collaboration and the exciting prospects for the future of carpentry and joinery.
The IOC is committed to supporting these initiatives and will closely follow the progress of the projects undertaken at Northampton College. The overwhelming success of the IOC’s Timber Industry College Hubs reflects a shared commitment to fostering collaboration between industry and education. With the support of CITB, the initiative continues to pave the way, attract and retain a thriving and skilled workforce in the construction industry, providing a bridge for enthusiastic carpentry and joinery trainees to embark on promising career paths.
The next IOC Timber Industry College Hub will be held at Exeter College in March.
