3 minute read
Training
LISTENING TO THE FUTURE OF THE TRADE
Concern about mental health outcomes in the workplace and a willingness to embrace technology-based solutions to provide a more sustainable future – and to help build business – are among the key issues today’s trade apprentices are focussing on. John Mewett, CEO at Screwfix, outlines what is on the minds of the next generation about to make their mark.
As part of 2020’s Screwfix Trade Apprentice competition, the company heard from eager and ambitious apprentices, as they were asked to share their thoughts around the issues that matter to them as they take their first steps towards building a successful career.
Some of the key themes that emerged included the importance of dealing with mental health issues in the workplace, as well as a real willingness to embrace new trends and renewable technology solutions to help drive a sustainable future for the industry and society.
Aside from the superior technical levels the candidates demonstrated during the competition, it was also interesting to hear their views on crucial industry topics. Their deeply held opinions and strong conviction shone a light on how today’s apprentices –and tomorrow’s expert tradespeople – are thinking and feeling as 2021 begins to unfold.
Remove the mental health taboo
Apprentices hold a collective belief that whilst the issue of mental health in the workplace has been more widely promoted in recent years, there is still much to do to further raise awareness about this important issue.
A prime example is around the prevailing culture of bravado that exists in the construction trades. Apprentices say that this needs to be shed so that individuals can be themselves when at work and not have to conform to an old-fashioned stereotype that today’s younger generation simply does not recognise.
Talking and not being afraid to share experiences and feelings, particularly with older colleagues, are key elements that need to be encouraged to continue to make real progress. Interest in the issue shown by apprentices can only support further moves towards improvement and better outcomes for everyone in the industry.
The inclusion of additional mental health resources and training across all trades should be a given. The ‘Time to Talk’ initiative is a great step forward, as well as the availability of the Access to Mental Health Support Service for Apprentices from the Government.
Using technology to deliver a sustainable future
Apprentices are also very much focussed on the trends and technology-driven innovations that can help meet current household demand for greener, more energy efficient products and services.
And they can also help companies’ better market themselves to help build business. Already technologically-savvy, apprentices can also bring a generational ability to support their employers with social media and online marketing and make the most of the business opportunities presented by digital platforms. Screwfix’s finalists also recognise the role that technology can play in helping them to learn new skills, with many of them regularly viewing trade ‘Day in the Life’ videos which have helped to inspire their curiosity in taking up a skilled trade.
Backing up the widespread green agenda interest, the renewables sector is viewed as offering great career opportunities for today’s apprentices. Apprentices discussed wanting to work with consumers to deliver the environmental benefits renewable solutions can provide. A combination of manufacturing innovation when it comes to green product development, and the increasing influence of new tradespeople who will be working in the sector over the coming decades, should ensure real progress is made in the crucial take up of renewable solutions needed to tackle climate change.
Such efforts should be supported by making it as simple as possible for tradespeople and apprentices to gain the TrustMark accreditation to be able to carry out projects as part of the new Green Homes Grant Scheme programme. In addition, the introduction of ‘top-up’ training modules on the latest products and services in the renewable energy sector for trades across all ages and levels of experience to upskill, would also be a positive move.
Future talent
It is widely acknowledged that today’s younger generation will be particularly hard hit by the impact of the current health crisis. Job opportunities and the ability of organisations to invest in new tradespeople talent will be under pressure as companies deal with the financial fallout of what 2020 threw at them.
Despite such unprecedented times, every effort must continue to be made to support the nation’s next generation of electricians, so that the demand for skilled tradespeople can continue to be met and the ambitions of new talent entering the industry can be realised.
Screwfix, screwfix.com
