The JIB and ECS have welcomed the creation of the new Government Department for Energy, Security and Net Zero.
As the organisation which works with industry to set the standards for employment, welfare, grading and training in the electrical contracting industry, the JIB believes the move will bring about a renewed focus on the UK’s aim to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050. ECS has for many years provided a focus on upskilling for Electricians and other electrotechnical occupations, and the last few years has seen a dedicated focus on competence, which requires qualified personnel to have undertaken relevant continuing professional development (CPD).
The JIB has been working with relevant Government Departments, the Construction Leadership Council, CSCS Alliance and other key industry stakeholders to promote the need for both upskilling of existing workers and highlighting the routes for new entrants into the industry that will help address the challenges of the UK achieving its net zero ambitions for 2050.
As technology develops and new regulations come into force it is important to demonstrate or prove that a person is up to date with the latest changes. A CPD record within an individual’s MyECS account helps keep all the training and knowledge development in one place and can be shown to an employer, client or professional institution when needed. More than 50% of ECS card holders have been using this facility since it launched in 2020 to include their latest qualifications, certificates, assessments, tool box talks and other CPD items, displaying their commitment to keeping up to date and further development.
Companies can make sure they are well positioned for job opportunities created by the shift to new technology by ensuring their staff can demonstrate their up to date skills through their MyECS account where they can view their CPD record and update accordingly.
Jay Parmar, CEO of the JIB, said: “The Government’s new Department for Energy, Security and Net Zero will encourage a move towards low carbon technology and this will create new responsibilities and opportunities for the workforce across the electrotechnical sector. We look forward to working with Government to establish a skilled and competent workforce that will help ensure delivery of a low carbon future.”
JIB member companies are reminded of the funding for upskilling and CPD through the JIB Skills Development Fund, which provides tens of thousands of pounds every year for upskilling in areas such as electric vehicle charging equipment, solar photovoltaics, heat pump installation and maintenance, and micro wind generation. To find out how to take advantage of this funding, see more about the JIB’s charitable activities here.