BCIA backs National Apprenticeship Week 2024

The Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) is actively participating in National Apprenticeship Week, which is currently taking place until February 11. 

As part of its activities to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, the BCIA has shared its engagements with current and former apprentices within the building controls sector to share insights into their apprenticeship experiences.

Gareth Holvey, a Junior Estimator at Cura Energy who is working towards a Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) Controls Engineer Apprenticeship Level 4, shared his positive experience, noting the balance between work and learning. "Cura Energy gives me 20% of the time in the week to do bits that I need to do on the apprenticeship, whether it’s an assignment or some additional learning with an engineer,” Holvey explained. He also emphasised the value of the apprenticeship in providing essential knowledge and skills for the industry.

James Barber, who has completed an apprenticeship in electrical engineering and now serves as Deputy Production Manager at Sontay, highlighted the comprehensive exposure to various departments within the company during his apprenticeship, which facilitated his career progression within Sontay.

Greg Smith, a Lead BMS Support/Commissioning Engineer at E.ON Controls, attributed his career development to the apprenticeship scheme. After being recommended to the Building Management Systems (BMS) industry for a career change, Smith pursued a four-year apprenticeship, leading to his qualification as an electrician and BMS controls specialist. He encourages those considering apprenticeships to explore the BEMS Controls Engineer Apprenticeship Level 4 as a gateway to the growing field of building management systems.

In April 2022, the BCIA introduced the Young Engineers Network (YEN) to support young professionals in the building controls industry. The YEN aims to foster a community where young BEMS engineers can exchange knowledge and best practices, contributing to the attraction and retention of young talent in the industry.

BCIA Vice President Stacey Lucas emphasised the significance of apprenticeships for entering the building controls sector and the critical role of the next generation of engineers in achieving sustainable building solutions. “The building controls industry is an exciting sector to be a part of and the next generation of engineers are going to be vital in delivering sustainable buildings that are crucial for our future," Lucas stated, underscoring the importance of National Apprenticeship Week as an opportunity to learn about the diverse opportunities available.