Stockport manufacturer, BFT Automation, has announced a new commitment to training following research by the company found 88% of installers think manufacturers have a role to play in developing skills.
The customer research took place ahead of National Careers Weeks, which is running from 4th to 9th March 2024, and found that when asked what current problems they were facing within their business, installers cited a lack of staff and training for their teams among the key challenges.
James Downey, UK Training Manager, has overseen the growth of the BFT UK Training Academy, the company’s dedicated training arm. He said:
“We’re continuing to see a strong demand for training across the industry – and it’s from installers at all stages of their careers, not just those starting out. The feedback we get is that trainees appreciate the opportunity to have face-to-face support, where they’re able to practice their new skills by getting hands-on with products, focusing on the areas where they can benefit the most.
“What’s more, as our training centres are located at our Swindon and Stockport sites, it gives trainees the opportunity to see our products in action and to hear about the newest products and innovations.
“We know the ongoing skills shortage is continuing to have a big impact on the industry and feel passionately that training is a way we can help our customers.”
The BFT UK Training Academy runs sessions at the company’s Swindon and Stockport offices. Courses are offered at three levels, with an introduction to automation and products at Level 1 and advanced engineers’ courses at Level 2. A specialist training level includes anti-terrorism bollards and pedestrian speed gates.
Kevin Spinks, Managing Director at BFT Automation, added:
“We always pride ourselves on offering more than just a manual and our training provision will continue to grow as a focus for our business as demand remains so high among the installers we work with.”
BFT Automation, part of the Somfy Group, is a leading manufacturer and distributor of automation technology, including gate automation products, traffic barriers and automatic bollards.
