A Lothian MSP has visited a Compass Roofing project to learn more about roofing apprenticeships and the challenges faced by both employees and apprentices.
Sue Webber MSP, who has been involved in highlighting the importance of traditional construction industry skills in Scotland for many years, was joined by Scott Miller, chair of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) Scotland, at the site.
During the visit, Ms Webber was able to join the Compass Roofing team on the roof to see the work first-hand and was given an opportunity to try her hand at preparing the slates. She was shown the technique of dressing the slate, adding a chamfer to the edge of the slate, and then invited to carry out the process herself.
The MSP’s work to highlight the traditional construction industry skills throughout the years included participating at construction skills demonstrations, which have included roof slating by NFRC and attending a traditional building skills roundtable meeting in the parliament earlier this year.
Ms Webber has also supported the Build Your Future events in Edinburgh (which NFRC has been involved in delivering) and said she understands the need to engage with young people to help them make informed decisions about their career choices.
Following the site visit, she said, “I want to thank Compass Roofing for the opportunity to see close up how they are supporting young people to enter into careers in the construction industry. The apprentices I met made it clear to me what a difference these opportunities have given them. Traditional skills such as roofing are essential, and we need to encourage more young people to consider apprenticeships if we are to tackle head on the industry’s need for skilled labour.”
Scott Miller added, “We were very grateful for Ms Webber’s continued support to raise the profile of the many and varied careers in construction and the wider importance of the industry. Apprentices play a crucial role in the roofing industry, contributing to the growth, sustainability, and quality of the sector. Apprenticeship recruitment is essential to meet the industry’s demand for skilled labour and we need to ensure that young people are aware of the potential positive careers in the industry.”
