The shopfitting industry, like many other sectors, relies heavily on the continuous influx of skilled professionals to sustain and grow. Unfortunately, the path to acquiring these skills has become increasingly fraught with challenges. The scarcity of appropriate professional qualifications and the shifting focus of training institutions have left a gaping void in the development of new talent. It’s crucial, now more than ever, to invest in apprentices to safeguard the future of our sector.
The Qualification Conundrum
One of the primary hurdles facing aspiring shopfitters is the lack of targeted professional qualifications. While the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) provides some pathways, these are often ill-suited for the specific demands of shopfitting. For instance, the assessment criteria for many of these qualifications include skills like window making, which are irrelevant for shopfitters. As a result, candidates might emerge with a qualification on paper, but without having been tested on the practical skills that truly matter.
The Influence of House Building
Over the past decade and a half, colleges and training centres have been predominantly influenced by the house-building trades, the largest employers of apprentices. This has led to a significant shift in the training focus, often at the expense of shopfitting courses. From my vantage point in the North East, the nearest institution offering a shopfitting qualification was in Leeds, and they have since discontinued the course, likely due to funding issues.
A Grim Prospect
The decline in dedicated training routes is reminiscent of the downturn experienced by the shipbuilding industry. There was a time when the shopfitting sector thrived on the back of hundreds of apprentices. Today, the avenues for entering the trade have dwindled, threatening the very fabric of our industry.
A Beacon of Hope
However, there is hope. The collaboration between the National Association of Shopfitters (NAS) and the Institute of Carpenters (IOC) offers a promising avenue for support and rejuvenation. Yet, the onus is not solely on these organisations. Employers, regardless of their size, must engage actively. The collective effort will not only benefit shopfitting, but the wider construction industry as well.
Future-Proofing Through Investment
To secure the future of our sector, a concerted focus on introducing new apprentices is paramount. The industry must recognise that training does not end with obtaining an NVQ. Long-term learning requires sustained investment in mentorship and the development of soft skills such as leadership, management, and effective communication.
A Career, Not Just a Job
Shopfitting should be seen as a career, requiring passion and dedication, and recognising the diverse routes into the industry as important. This means embracing candidates of all ages and backgrounds. Older candidates, for example, often bring a wealth of experience and transferable skills that can accelerate their development and benefit the company. Veterans in particular, are known for their professionalism, drive, and excellent skills.
Breaking Down Barriers
There may be scepticism regarding non-traditional routes into shopfitting, but it is essential to confront the reality: without comprehensive investment now, the trade is at risk. Embracing diversity in age and gender, and recognising the unique attributes of each candidate, will only strengthen our industry.
Conclusion
The shopfitting sector stands at a crossroads. By investing in apprentices and ensuring they receive the right training and mentorship, we can secure the longevity and vitality of our trade. This is a call to action for all stakeholders—employers, training bodies, and industry organisations alike—to come together and forge a sustainable path forward. It is not just about filling jobs; it is about nurturing a lifelong passion and building a resilient future for shopfitting.
Stephen Flynn | Rosebirch Fit-Out Solutions