The skills shortage is continuing to put pressure on the construction industry, with the greatest gap being in job-specific and trade skills, according to the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). Two growing areas of demand are timber and modern methods of construction, which are crucial as we seek to meet net-zero targets and greater sustainability.

One key element necessary for tackling the skills gap is to invest in employee training and development. By encouraging colleagues to improve their expertise and advance their professional growth, organisations can better retain and attract talent.

Earlier this year, Donaldson Timber Systems (DTS) became the first and only timber frame company to offer CPD-accredited training. Covering a range of topics, including construction, technical aspects, commercial skills and client sales, our workshops equip current and potential clients with key knowledge in the offsite timber frame sector. With in-person and virtual courses, we support people of all abilities and experiences, from students and graduates to career veterans in the construction industry and beyond.

Like other organisations, we already had established training programmes we have used for our own teams but by taking the next step to secure CPD accreditation, clients are now able to track and demonstrate their development by logging their certification towards CPD study or using it to build career progression.

A WIN FOR THE INDUSTRY

Securing CPD accreditation for offsite timber frame workshops is great for not only us, but the industry as a whole. It affirms the integrity of timber, both as a building material, as well as the benefits of modern methods of construction in delivering cost-effective, sustainable, and affordable housing solutions.

Having delivered over 50 workshops to over 500 industry professionals last year, it’s clear that the construction industry needs, and wants, to learn more. CPD training empowers individuals to gain the expertise that they need to grow and develop, while organisations can benefit from more engaged and skilled staff.

TIME FOR TIMBER

We have long championed the use of offsite timber frame construction as the ideal way to achieve efficient and sustainable building solutions. Not only does timber achieve a superior build quality compared to other materials, but as the only naturally renewable building material, it is the most sustainable form of construction. Timber frame buildings are more environmentally friendly during the build, when the building is in use, and throughout its lifetime.

While timber is the ultimate solution to achieve netzero carbon, its benefits can only be maximised if the workforce has the right skills to do so. With regulations like the Future Homes Standard increasing the requirements for more environmentally friendly building methods, it will become vital to ensure the industry is trained on MMC and other timber-related skills. Therefore, it’s more important than ever that we support those within the industry and beyond on their journey of upskilling and development. Donaldson Timber Systems’ CPD workshops are an ideal way to stay at the forefront of industry developments and ensure that you have the knowledge that you need to achieve success.

To learn more about DTS’ training courses, visit https://www.donaldsontimbersystems.com/services/ training/