YOUNG people in Scotland had the opportunity to learn more about the potential career opportunities available in the scaffolding and access sector during a recent event in Glasgow.
The NASC took a stand at the two-day National School and College Leavers Show at the SEC as part of the organisation’s quest to proactively encourage young adults into the industry via the CISRS training scheme.
The stand was manned by NASC H&S manager Steve Kearney and training officer Henry Annafi, with members support from Mark Skinner (City Access Scaffolding), Paul Mulholland, Regan O’Connor, and Kieran Campbell (Lyndon SGB), Kevin Fitzpatrick (Enigma-I), Dan Wilson (Mar Scaffolding), Rob Aitken and Ronnie Charters (RDA Scaffolding), and Chris Austin (Check-It Group).
The event also featured a stair tower scaffold structure, supplied by Stepup Scaffold UK. Stepup’s Simon Russell provided a demonstration of the structure across both days.
NASC reported that more than 200 young people and teachers visited its stand on Day One, with over 30 requesting follow-up conversations with employers.
Attendance peaked on Day Two, with over 250 visitors to the NASC stand and upwards of 60 requesting further information from members about career and training opportunities.
Attendees were said to be particularly excited to try the working at height VR headset experience, simulating a scaffolding inspection.
Some 260 NASC and member company business cards were taken during the event, and at least four schools, one college and three charities working with young people have requested assemblies, visits, and discussions with NASC members.
NASC said all attending Scottish company members found the event a valuable opportunity and are keen to build on it. They have also stated that they are eager to get involved in the NASC’s Returning Citizens scheme, which is aimed at promoting the industry to returning citizens – previously referred to as ex-offenders.
“This event was a tremendous success for us,” said Henry Annafi. “We were thrilled to meet so many enthusiastic young people and teachers interested in careers in our industry. We are grateful to our members for their support and are delighted that so many attendees left our stand eager to find out more about apprenticeships and CISRS training.”
