The compressed air industry is packed full of experienced engineers; technicians that day in, day-out keep operations running smoothly and power applications around the globe.
With our new NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Installation and Commissioning, these technicians can now prove their professional skills and competencies for the first time.
Technicians just like Darren Turnbull from BCAS member, Premiair Solutions.
We caught up with Darren and his branch manager, Stephen Gathercole during this year’s National Career Week. Here’s what they had to say.
The NVQ was developed in part to address the competency concerns raised by the Construction Leadership Council regarding personnel working on construction sites – and is recognised by the Building Engineering and Services Association as a formal industry standard, including Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) recognition.
For Premiair Solutions, this is key, as Darren explained:
“I’ve been a compressed air service technician for over 14 years and built up a considerable amount of practical experience. My customers know they can rely on my knowledge and skills but, I’ve never held a formal qualification that demonstrates my core competencies in compressed air.”
Stephen added:
“We were finding that more customers were asking for proof of our engineering knowledge, both in relation to working on new build projects, but also, from larger, blue-chip organisations as part of our supplier agreements.
The NVQ gives us the perfect opportunity to demonstrate existing knowledge and credentials and our commitment to safe working practices, without technicians having to undergo additional training. Darren has almost completed the course, and we already have a second technician working towards his qualification.”
An important aspect of the NVQ is that it is designed to fit around a service technician’s daily work as Darren explained:
“I have been submitting evidence throughout the diploma to demonstrate my ability to comply with statutory regulations, health and safety and the correct installation methods to name a few. As a skilled technician, that wasn’t difficult, but it does require motivation and dedication.
I’ve put in around 200 hours of my own time to make sure my portfolio of evidence was strong. But for me, it’s worth it. It’s proof of all my years of hard work and commitment.”
So, what do Stephen and Darren think about the future of the compressed air industry and the opportunities it can offer to a younger generation?
“It can literally take you anywhere,” said Stephen. In my 27 years in the industry I’ve moved from internal sales through various positions to now being branch manager.
Mindsets have shifted during this time, and our customers now want us to be solution sellers; helping them find better ways to save energy and reduce their carbon footprint through their compressed air installations. It keeps us on our toes and makes the job interesting.”
Darren added:
“Compressor control and data analysis has also really changed the sector. The way we programme and maintain compressors is becoming more intelligent, making it an attractive career choice too. Adding the NVQ in the mix will really give younger technicians the motivation to invest in their own career development, knowing they will achieve a recognised qualification.”