SkillBuild2011 was an excellent opportunity for tradesmen trainees to showcase their skills and be seen by potential employers. If you are a trainee, especially in the carpentry industry – you truly missed out. Taking part in SkillBuild2011 really displays a trainees commitment to training, ongoing learning, and potential for certification.
The SkillBuild 2011 Trainee Construction Worker Competition
14 regional heats took place between March and May this year and forthcoming trainees were put through the ringer. Those who win will continue on to the September final in Leeds.
Trainees are expected to follow detailed instructions, produce quality work, and meet budgets and deadlines- the same expectations there are for professionals in the real world. Not only does the competition offer a fun and competitive environment, it also allows trainees a real taste of what it’s like to work in the construction field.
Arran Roberts was the gold winner for carpentry at last year’s competition and has since secured a job with RJ Smith & Co. He stated that the expectations were high but the competition covered all the skills he would be required to use on a daily basis.
What SkillBuild Prepares You For in the Construction Industry
To reiterate, SkillBuild2011 truly does prepare you for what you will come face to face with each day for the rest of your career. It also prepares you for certifications such as the Carpentry NVQ, which is becoming mandatory in an increasing number of companies.
SkillBuild2011 also prepares you to work under the scrutiny of your superiors, as there are several professionals and employers who come to watch. A great perk is that it gives you the chance to really show off your skills and be noticed by big names in the industry.
Construction NVQs and Work Experience – Carpentry NVQ
Even once you have completed your training, you will still be considered a ‘trainee’ by your employer until you have sufficiently proven yourself. Furthermore, it is very difficult to gain employment if you have not had any actual work experience. The best thing you can do for yourself is prove to your employer ongoing training and certifications are as important to you as they are to them.
While you may not be ready to take a Carpentry NVQ Level 3 right out of training, it is definitely a goal you will want to keep in mind. An NVQ in Carpentry is essentially an on the job assessment by a professional assessor to measure your skills and knowledge. Acquiring an NVQ in Carpentry tells you and any future employers you may have that you are competent in your field, you take pride in what you do, and you care enough to invest the time to become certified.
A Level 2 Carpentry NVQ is a relatively small way to make a large statement about yourself and it is something you should carry with pride.
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