
Retrofit – Keep Contracts Local
The Regional Learning and Skills Partnership (RLSP) South West Wales recently held an event at Parc y Scarlets for the retrofit sector, drawing in a crowd of over 100 professionals from the housing industry, building contractors and supply chain management.
The event was an essential gathering for those at the forefront of the retrofit movement, driving positive change in the housing sector.
The main theme was the discussion on skill shortages within the industry, with a focus on identifying funding solutions to close the gaps.
Ben Burggraaf, the CEO of Net Zero Industry Wales, opened the event and spoke about empowering businesses to create greener futures.
Steve Knight and Phil Mason, representing MCS and TrustMark, highlighted the significance of these accreditations, which are vital for maintaining industry standards.
Other speakers included Oonagh Gavigan, the HAPS Project Manager for the Swansea Bay City Deal, who spoke about the concept of ‘Homes as Power Stations’ (HAPS) and the vision for future housing in South West Wales. Kassie Williams, the Sustainable Partnerships Manager at Robert Price, presented a case study on collaborative efforts to achieve net zero. Malcolm Davies, the Senior Programme Manager for Housing Decarbonisation at the Welsh Government, discussed the opportunities and challenges in the housing sector. Alec Thomas, the Supply Chain Lead for Homes as Power Stations, highlighted the tendering opportunities for upcoming contracts. Dafydd Guto Carrod, the Supply Chain Adviser at Business Wales, offered strategies for contract achievement.
The day ended with a presentation from Jane Lewis the RLSP Manager emphasising the importance of getting the right skilled workforce to deliver on the opportunities that will be generated over the next 10-15 years.
Jane said: “The event was a success, bringing together a wide range of construction companies; housing associations and local Authorities to showcase the huge range of procurement opportunities available for companies who have the skilled individuals to install Smart technology into new homes and retrofit existing homes across the region.
“The RLSP wants to support business leaders to upskill staff where necessary to ensure that they can tender for the wide range of contracts available within the region.”
The feedback from the event was overwhelmingly positive, with participants keen to implement the knowledge and strategies discussed.
Regional Learning and Skills Partnership South West Wales
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