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Training initiatives: An air of confidence
19 July 2013
Compressed air is used in thousands of applications and is vital to the productivity of industries around the globe. Compressed air engineers have transferable skills; rewarding and challenging work; competitive salaries; good career progression and yet, in the UK and other nations, there is a significant shortage of qualified, experienced technicians and a real problem exists in attracting young people into the sector. Chris Dee, executive director of BCAS explains
The reason for the shortage of technicians is partly down to perception. Many young people do not understand the true role of an engineer or the careers that it can offer. The British Compressed Air Society has a busy programme of activities, events and resources to raise awareness of compressed air careers among young people and to support them in their studies.
Lifelong learning
According to the European Commission, the scale of current economic and social change, the rapid transition to a knowledge-based society and demographic pressures resulting from an ageing population in Europe are all challenges that demand a new approach to education and training, within the framework of lifelong learning.
Lifelong learning is about providing second chances to update basic skills and to offer opportunities at more advanced levels. All this means that formal systems of provision need to become much more open and flexible, so that such opportunities can truly be tailored to the needs of the learner, or indeed the potential learner.
BCAS has for many years offered high quality training courses, helping members and their clients (both individuals and businesses) to develop their knowledge and skills in compressed air systems. All BCAS courses provide the underpinning knowledge needed to ensure that users have the most cost effective and efficient compressed air system. Our certificated courses are product neutral and designed to complement the training typically provided by manufacturers and their authorised distributors.
From 'Compressed Air System Technology' to ‘Diploma in Compressed Air Management’ and 'Safe Use of Compressed Air’ to 'Competent Examiner', we handle a wide range of courses, and can tailor our approach to suit individual needs.
BCAS courses can be conducted online, face-to-face or through distance learning so that users can choose the best format to fit in to their work schedule.
Training can take place at one of our nationwide centres or, if it is more convenient, we can train groups at their own premises.
Working in partnership with the Virtual College, BCAS has created a number of accredited e-learning courses. Founded in 1995, Virtual College is a UK leader in e-learning, online learning and blended learning. It works with some of the largest companies and public sector organisations in the UK, as well as providing e-learning to tens of thousands of individual learners.
Tailored teaching
BCAS understands that the prospect of going back into a learning environment does not appeal to everyone and that is why the society’s techniques are tailored for adult learning.
A variety of teaching methods are used to include every type of learner. Whatever is needed – be it course materials, handbooks or certificates – BCAS training courses are all-inclusive. If supporting guidance and post-course advice is required, the society is just a call or email away.
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