BCIA seeks input from industry professionals

With the building controls sector facing additional scrutiny through a sharper legislative focus on skills and qualification verification, the Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) has been tasked with developing a new competence revalidation system that benefits the individuals, employers and the industry as a whole – and is seeking input from professionals from across the built environment.

The consultation period, running throughout September, will be industry-wide and those from across the sector, especially non-members, are encouraged to take part and give their feedback on the potential new forms of revalidation that have been suggested following the BCIA’s initial discussions with employers in the building energy management systems (BEMS) industry.

To streamline and fully support the consultation process, the BCIA has arranged two online roundtables, with the first taking place on Wednesday 17^th September between 12pm and 13.30pm.

This will be followed by a further session on Monday 22nd September between 12.30pm and 14.00pm.

With the ever-tightening of regulatory scrutiny and the phasing out of industry-accredited competency cards exacerbating the importance of verified skills and qualifications, the revalidation of competence is gaining increased significance.

While great strides have been made in recent years to support new entrants and workforce development, through schemes such as the BCIA-recognised Level 4 BEMS Controls Engineer Apprenticeship, the revalidation of competence remains a vitally-important gap that requires filling.

As the sector’s nominated responsible organisation, the BCIA has been tasked with developing a sector-specific competency framework, with the primary focus the development of a full career competency pathway to enable individuals to provide evidence of their skills, experience and qualifications through the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS).

Speaking at the BCIA’s recent Management Committee, Jason Harper, Managing Director at Integrated BMS, highlighted the importance of proving competence and its many benefits to individuals and employers. He said: “The biggest challenge facing our sector is the shortfall in quality skilled engineers. There is a growing gap between traditional BMS engineers and the skills needed for modern software-driven systems requiring a multi-skilled engineer capable of a high level of understanding in IT systems, software and mechanical plant.

“Proving competency will give companies the reassurance that the employed BMS engineer has the skillset capable of carrying out the role effectively. Regular revalidation of competency can improve productivity and ensure employees have the correct skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively. It also reduces risk and costly mistakes, leading to higher customer satisfaction and the strengthening of the business’ overall performance.”

Tickets for the online roundtables are free and seats at the first event, taking place on Wednesday 17^th September, can be confirmed here. The BCIA is also welcoming views through an online survey, which can be completed by clicking this link.