CIF Head of Learning and Development Conor Greham considers how education and training remain crucial for sustaining progress and achieving excellence within the industry
Education is the cornerstone of a skilled, safe and efficient workforce. Our training programmes at CIF are meticulously designed to cater to the evolving needs of the construction sector, ensuring that our workforce remains competent, compliant and capable of delivering high-quality work.
Moreover, these programmes offer individuals within the industry the opportunity for personal career growth, contributing to the overall advancement of our sector.
The past year has been particularly exciting for the construction industry, especially from an educational standpoint.
At the forefront of these advancements is the recently launched civil engineering apprenticeship by ATU Sligo, supported by CIF. It is fully subscribed and set for expansion into other technological universities.
This initiative was launched by then Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris, now our Taoiseach, in November 2023. This programme exemplifies our commitment to fostering a new generation of skilled professionals through innovative educational pathways.
In addition to civil engineering, we are driving professional apprenticeships in quantity surveying in partnership with the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI).
This pivotal shift towards apprenticeship style training for traditionally academic roles signifies a broader change in how we approach education and skill development in the construction industry.
The National Association of Scaffolding and Access Contractors (NASAC) in collaboration with Laois and Offaly Education Training Board (LOETB developed a scaffolding apprenticeship programme which is run in Mount Lucas National Construction Training Centre.
The Scaffolding Craft Apprenticeship is a two-year apprenticeship at Level 5 on the National Framework of Qualifications.
It provides comprehensive skills and understanding of the mechanics of scaffold, the different forces acting on scaffold structures and incorporate specialist skills to ensure that apprentices are fully competent.
Advances in scaffolding and access systems, as well as improved health and safety measures, prompted the establishment of the apprentice scheme, and the first cohort of apprentices graduated in May.
Employers have reported that the apprentices have developed confidence and skills in performing their on-site tasks and are very pleased with the programme.
The apprenticeship is a level 6, three year apprenticeship in development with Ballyfermot Training Centre and CDETB and the first registrations are expected in Quarter 4, 2024.
Safety management, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance remain at the heart of our educational offerings. We have seen a gradual return to classroom-based courses, which is encouraging for the industry.
These courses, run both live and via our virtual classroom, are crucial in maintaining high standards across all aspects of construction.
In Dublin, we have successfully rolled out our popular programmes quarterly over the past nine months and plan to extend these offerings regionally from next year.
We are continuing to expand our e-learning and on-demand education.
Launching in September, our e-learning modules will allow participants to engage with content over a three-month period, offering flexibility and convenience.
This initiative, starting with a certified project management diploma in partnership with the Institute of Project Management, represents a significant step forward for CIF.
The Construction Professionals Skillnet plays a crucial role in our training efforts. CP Skillnet offers programmes on Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), partnering with Griffith College on Strategic Supply Management for MMC and Strategic Coordination and Collaboration for MMC.
We also partner with Chartered Institute of Builders (CIOB) offering programmes that include Managing Sustainable Construction, Quality of Construction Works, and Technology of Modern and Traditional Construction Works.
These programmes, available from late August and September, are designed to meet the industry’s current and future needs. Regulatory changes also drive the need for continuous education.
For instance, new versions of the technical guidance documents Part B and Part J under the building regulations will be available for participation a City and Guilds approved program on this September.
Keeping abreast of such changes is vital for maintaining compliance and safety standards in construction.
The return to classroom learning post pandemic has allowed us to reintroduce practical elements to our courses.
Our management inspection to scaffolding course, for example, now includes an onsite practical component where participants undertake a full site-based scaffold inspection led by a CIF trainer.
This hands-on approach is invaluable in ensuring that theoretical knowledge is effectively translated into real-world skills. Launching our e-learning modules is a response to member feedback.
While we have some short courses for renewals, we are now expanding into more comprehensive e-learning offerings. Project management is our initial focus, providing flexibility for participants to gain accreditation over three months.
This initiative reflects the industry’s growing interest in digital learning. Our Power BI course is another example of addressing industry needs.
Larger companies might have dedicated professionals for such tools, but smaller businesses and tradespeople also need to keep pace. As traditional construction companies undergo generational shifts, there is a growing need for digital skills to remain competitive.
Our training programmes aim to bridge this gap, ensuring that all industry players, from large firms to family-run businesses, can thrive in a digitalised environment.
At CIF, we are committed to providing a wide range of courses that cater to the evolving needs of the construction industry. Our programmes ensure that the workforce remains competent, compliant and capable of delivering high-quality work.
Additionally, these educational opportunities foster personal career growth and contribute to the overall advancement of the industry.
As the construction landscape continues to change, ongoing education and training will remain crucial for sustaining progress and achieving excellence.
