The British Woodworking Federation (BWF) has launched a campaign to champion the role of apprentices in woodworking and joinery manufacturing, and to highlight the diversity of career opportunities in the industry. The campaign launched on 11 April, entitled ‘Our industry’s next generation: Apprentices tell their stories’. It sees apprentices and former apprentices of BWF members share their journeys.
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. The BWF hopes that its campaign will directly address the skills shortage facing the construction industry, encouraging the next generation of woodworkers and joinery manufacturers.
Helen Hewitt, CEO of the BWF, 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. 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 plans to focus on skills, talent recruitment and retention. Contributor businesses include A R Manley, ERW Joinery, George Barnsdale, Input Joinery, Masonite and William Holmes. For more information, visit bwf.org.uk/education/timber-futures.
