New BCAS vice president targets engineering skills gap

THE BRITISH Compressed Air Society (BCAS) has appointed Derek Leith, regional director for Northern Europe at Ingersoll Rand, as its new vice president.

Working alongside BCAS president Wendy Hayward and BCAS board members, Leith will continue with the progression already made by the Society to recruit new talent into the compressed air industry; a challenge felt keenly across the sector with many engineers reaching the end of their careers.

He is also keen for the Society to continue adapting to the changing pace of industry, supporting members as they navigate complex legislative and environmental demands to deliver the best outcomes for customers.

Skills gap tops new vice president's agenda

"The compressed air sector is full of talented engineers, but as we hear all too often, many of these engineers are reaching the end of their careers, meaning we face a skills gap. As the sole trade body representing compressor manufacturers, distributors and end-users, it is incumbent on us to encourage the next generation of young technicians into our industry, by demonstrating the opportunities available for skills development, ongoing training and progression," Leith stated. 

"Prioritising future engineering talent is good for everyone. For our members, it ensures a steady pipeline of skilled technicians, and for end-users, it provides the assurance of ongoing and quality technical support. To help address this, we are in the process of setting up a young person's committee, where we’ll be looking for fresh ideas that we can take to our member network."

Aligning training with shifting industrial demands

BCAS has been promoting a culture of continuous professional development across its member network. With AI technologies bringing a new dimension to system control and traditional service regimes being enhanced with predictive maintenance, engineers must update their skills regularly to use new software and methodologies effectively. Changing industry standards mean that continuous learning is essential to maintain compliance and competence.

The Society has continued to adapt its training offer to ensure that courses not only remain technically relevant in a changing industrial workplace but provide meaningful support for engineers keen to improve their skills and competence.

"With my experience in compressed air distribution, I know how important it is for our members, especially some of our smaller distributors to have the support, knowledge and backing of their trade association and to feel part of a wider collective with a shared goal. During my vice presidency, I will be encouraging further engagement from our members to ensure that the Society delivers the resources and the support needed for continued growth," Leith explained. 

Leith previously spent almost a decade in distribution in Singapore and Malaysia prior to his current role handling direct sales teams for Ingersoll Rand in the Nordics, Benelux, UK and Ireland. "With his extensive compressor distribution and sales experience, he will be a great asset to the BCAS board," Ashley Quarterman, executive director at BCAS, affirmed.

For more information: 

www.bcas.org.uk

Tel: 0207 935 2464