THE British Woodworking Federation (BWF) has launched a campaign to champion the role of apprentices in woodworking and joinery manufacturing and highlight the diversity of career opportunities in the industry.
The campaign Our industry's next generation: Apprentices tell their stories sees apprentices and former apprentices of BWF members share their journeys to bring to life the passion, achievements and benefits that an apprenticeship can offer.
One apprentice who has shared his story is Cai, from Bala-based Williams Homes.
"I’ve always been interested in woodworking even from a young age," he said.
"I’m a very practical person and also quite creative, and joinery allows me to use these qualities daily which is great."
On what surprised him most about the industry, he added: "I would have to say the sheer amount of career options within the trade.
"There are so many different paths to choose from, which is a really good thing because once you’ve mastered a certain aspect of joinery you can move onto a new challenge – it keeps things interesting."
The construction industry is facing a skills shortage, with CITB estimating more than 43,000 new entrants are needed every year for the next five years to maintain output.
This campaign aims to encourage the next generation into the woodworking and joinery manufacturing profession by shining a light on the apprentices and former apprentices and the breadth of opportunities offered by the sector.
The campaign, which includes video interviews and case studies, will run across multiple channels to raise awareness of the diversity of roles, skills and career pathways within the industry.
Helen Hewitt, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation, said: “Hearing direct from apprentices and apprentice graduates in our profession about why they chose a career in woodworking and joinery is inspirational for the next generations.
"The wide range of roles, jobs and opportunities within the industry is clear, and as our apprentices have highlighted, every day is exciting, different and a chance to learn new skills.
“As the focus on sustainability is pushed to the top of the agenda, it’s clear that woodworking and joinery skills will be sought after as demand for sustainable building materials, such as timber, increases.
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"It’s therefore vital that as an industry we come together to champion the important role that apprentices play in securing the growth and future of our profession.
"This campaign will maintain the momentum and focus on apprentices throughout the year, raising awareness of the diverse and fulfilling career options that lie ahead for those joining our industry.”
The campaign forms part of the BWF’s 2022 plans and core focus on skills, talent recruitment and retention.
‘Our industry's next generation: Apprentices tell their stories’ includes content from BWF members: A R Manley, ERW Joinery, George Barnsdale, Input Joinery, Masonite and Williams Homes.
For more information, visit https://www.bwf.org.uk/education/timber-futures/
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