Securing the future of the glass industry
The glass industry, like much of the wider construction and fenestration sectors, faces a looming crisis: an ageing workforce and a severe skills shortage. Glass Express Midlands managing director, Arun Photay, gives his view on how the industry needs to mobilise to overcome the problem.
The Construction Skills Network recently reported that the UK construction sector requires an additional 225,000 workers by 2027 to meet demand, while a recent FENSA study found that over half of window, door, and glazing companies are struggling to recruit skilled workers.
Without fresh talent, businesses in our sector will be unable to keep up with the increasing demand for high-performance glazing solutions, and the industry risks stagnation at a time when innovation and sustainability are more important than ever.
We are taking proactive steps to bridge the skills gap by investing in the next generation. Recognising that young people often have little exposure to career opportunities in manufacturing and glass processing, our technical manager at Glass Express Midlands, Kirsty Fortnam, has taken the lead in introducing students to the sector through dedicated outreach initiatives.
Working closely with Q3 Academy in Langley, Kirsty is helping to create a careers framework that educates students on the practical realities of transitioning from school to employment. Her visits include career fairs, workshops, and hands-on guidance, answering questions about what it’s like to work in a factory, the qualifications needed for different roles, and the career progression available in the industry.
The impact of these activities cannot be overstated; with schools largely focused on higher education pathways, many students are unaware of the variety of opportunities present within industries like glass manufacturing.
But labour shortages in the glass, and wider construction industry, are not just a challenge for business owners – they have direct consequences for economic growth and infrastructure development.
The demand for housing, commercial buildings, and retrofitting older properties to meet modern energy efficiency standards is growing, yet there simply aren’t enough skilled professionals to carry out the work.
In an industry where hands-on expertise is crucial, the need to nurture young talent has never been greater. Investing in early engagement through schools not only supports our longevity but also ensures that crucial skills and industry knowledge are passed down to future generations.
Beyond her role in schools, Kirsty’s commitment to community outreach extends even further. As a school governor in West Bromwich, she is actively involved in shaping educational policies that prioritise employability.
Her work also includes supporting Outreach Angels, where she provides meals and first aid to the homeless in Birmingham, reinforcing Glass Express Midlands’ dedication to corporate social responsibility. These activities not only strengthen community ties but also demonstrate to young people the importance of businesses that give back.
At a time when fewer young people are considering careers in trades and manufacturing, it is essential for industry leaders to step forward and highlight the possibilities within our fields.
Careers in the glass industry offer stability, innovation, and the opportunity to be part of an evolving sector that is integral to modern construction. With smart glass technologies, energy-efficient solutions, and advanced manufacturing techniques shaping the future, there has never been a better time to inspire a new generation to take an interest in fenestration.
If our sector fails to engage with young people today, we risk facing an even more severe workforce crisis in the future. Industry-wide collaboration is necessary to attract and retain talent, from apprenticeships and mentoring schemes to educational outreach and hands-on training.
The future of the sector depends on businesses taking action now. By fostering curiosity, offering clear pathways into employment, and ensuring young people see the value in skilled trades, companies can secure their long-term growth while providing young workers with fulfilling and dynamic careers.
Kirsty’s work at Glass Express Midlands serves as an example of what’s possible when we invest in people, demonstrating that, with the right guidance, the next generation can shape a stronger, more innovative glass industry for years to come.