How to improve business performance, qualify the workforce and improve the image and recruitment record of the industry were the big themes covered at a conference jointly hosted by SummitSkills and ConstructionSkills.

Among the findings that will inform the work of the two Sector Skills Councils over the coming months were the need for investment in teamwork and leadership skills, calls to make CSCS/ECS cards compulsory on government contracts and demands for funding for adult apprenticeships.

Ivan Lewis, minister for education and skills, told the audience: “We want to rebuild the apprenticeship system. If you look at the number of young people aged 17 who have stayed in some form of education or training, we are 22nd out of 26 OECD countries. That is shocking.”

SummitSkills is working on building up labour market data in advance of starting the Sector Skills Agreement process, its agreed plan of action, towards the end of 2005.

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor