Encouraging the next generation into the industry is a key priority for the BWF, and the new campaign – which will feature current and former apprentices – forms part of the organisation’s 2022 plans over skills, talent recruitment and retention.
Driving awareness of the many career paths in the woodworking and joinery manufacturing profession, as well as the positive contribution that apprentices make to businesses, activity will be focused around sharing the stories and experiences of apprentices and successful professionals who began their careers through the achievement of an apprenticeship.
Helping to address the broader construction industry skills shortage, which the CITB estimates will mean 216,800 new workers will be needed by 2025 to meet demand, the campaign will help to address skills challenges in the woodworking and joinery manufacturing profession. It will also draw upon the latest insight from the CITB’s New perspectives on recruitment to the construction industry report to align industry efforts to position the construction industry as an attractive career proposition.
Launching in March, video content will bring to life the journeys of individuals entering into, and professionals already working in the woodworking and joinery manufacturing industry, and also raise awareness of the broad range of roles within and supporting the profession.
“This campaign will really shine a light on the essential role that apprenticeships play within the woodworking and joinery manufacturing industry in bringing the next generation of talent into our profession,” said Helen Hewitt, CEO of the BWF. “As we support National Apprenticeship Week at the beginning of February every year, we’re looking forward to extending its momentum and focus throughout the year to demonstrate the rewarding and diverse career paths that an apprenticeship in our industry offers.
“There is a huge demand for woodworking and joinery skills right now, and it’s an exciting time to enter the profession and start on the career ladder. Companies in our sector are very well equipped to provide a formal training structure for apprentices, supported by the colleges that they partner with, and to be the starting point for a successful career in the woodworking and joinery manufacturing industry.”
