ADCAS warns of skills shortages

ADCAS, the Ductwork Industry Trade Association, has warned of a potential shortage of skilled staff as a result of poaching by M&E contracting organisations.
“The problem is that most contractors have given up on training,” said an ADCAS spokesman. “Now demand is rising they realise their mistake and look for trained personnel wherever they can find them – and where better than ADCAS trainees?

“In a way it’s flattering and a seal of approval on the quality of ADCAS training, but it means there will be an inevitable gap in the ranks of skilled ductwork specialists.”

ADCAS is one of the few trade bodies to provide extensive training courses for every level from the first day apprentice to those who already have a foot on the ladder to a management career.

Training begins with the Association’s two and a half year Foundation Apprenticeship for ductwork installers, culminating in an NVQ2 qualification. Successful candidates may then move on to the NVQ Level 3 programme.

The two-year ADCAS Management course is the only one of its kind – purpose written to meet the specialist requirements of the ductwork industry. It requires candidates to complete a total of six modules, covering every aspect of the subject from order negotiation to final accounting and adjudication under the Construction Act.