In a significant development for the electrotechnical industry, the EAL Level 3 Panel Wiring for Engineering Applications route has been approved by the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) as a pathway to obtaining the prestigious Panel Builder and Wireman Gold card for experienced workers. This new qualification aims to address the long-standing demand for recognising experienced workers in the Specialist Control and Distribution Panel Manufacture and Installation subsector.
Purpose and Benefits of the Experienced Worker Assessment
Companies within this niche of the electrotechnical industry have long called for a way to acknowledge the expertise of seasoned professionals. While traditional apprenticeship routes are well-suited for new entrants, leading to recognition and eligibility for a Wireman/Panel Builder Gold card, there has been a clear need for an alternative pathway for experienced workers. These individuals, who have been contributing to the field for years, often find apprenticeships unsuitable but still wish to align with the latest ECS and competence requirements.
To address this, the Joint Industry Board (JIB) led a task and finish group to explore potential solutions. The result is the Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA), which offers a structured and standardised way for experienced workers to have their skills formally recognised.
Working Group
A working group comprising employers and industry representatives including the JIB, the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA), SELECT, the British Electrotechnical and Allied Manufacturers’ Association (BEAMA), and the Association for Instrumentation, Control, Automation & Laboratory Technology (GAMBICA) brought substantial knowledge of previous efforts in this area and discussed the history and existing workarounds.
Criteria for the New Pathway
The group agreed that any solution must meet the following criteria:
This new qualification is expected to significantly benefit the industry by providing a clear and respected route for experienced workers to gain formal recognition of their skills and expertise.
“This is a significant step forward for our industry,” said Andy Reakes, Director of Growth and Development at the JIB & ECS. “It ensures that the valuable skills of experienced workers are recognised and rewarded, aligning with our commitment to raising standards and providing clear career pathways. It addresses a critical gap and offers a much-needed alternative to traditional apprenticeships for those who have already dedicated years to this occupation, while maintaining the rigour and practical assessment that has come to be embodied in the award of an ECS Gold card.”
This initiative marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance the standards and recognition within the electrotechnical industry, ensuring that all workers have the opportunity to achieve the highest levels of professional competence.
Nick Hayler, Director of Member Services and Head of Building Electrical Systems, BEAMA, explained: “The EWA provides an opportunity for skilled workers without formal qualifications to gain recognition for their expertise. This is particularly beneficial for those who may not have completed a traditional apprenticeship or obtained formal qualifications earlier in their careers.
“It provides formal recognition for workers who have substantial industry experience (at least five years) but lack formal qualifications. It is a demonstration of competence and through ECS confirms the worker's skills, competence and qualifications to employers and clients.
“The EWA allows employers such as BEAMA members to improve workforce capabilities, provide confidence to their supply chain by demonstrating a commitment to quality and safety standards in turn adding a competitive advantage and enhance employee retention.”
Mike Ratcliffe, Operations Manager at AF Switchgear, part of the working group, said: “This acknowledgment by the JIB to recognise skilled experienced workers with a gold card is excellent news for the Panel Building industry and all members should be encouraged to participate in the scheme. AF Switchgear were pleased to be part of the Experienced Workers route pilot scheme and will continue to offer support in training and development initiatives within the Panel Building industry.”
Thanks go to all those organisations involved in the working group including:
· Actemium
· AF Switchgear
· BEAMA
· BGEN
· EAL
· ECA
· EL Steel
· GR Electrical
· MSSL
· REMSDAQ
· SELECT
· West Notts College