The shortage of skilled staff in the fenestration industry is one that Epwin Window Systems is keen to tackle via its Connect digital platform.

Gerald Allen, marketing manager at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We have partnered with specialist industry training provider T3 Training and Development to provide a wide range of qualifications, including the new standards, to help our customers upskill their staff and add value to their businesses.

“We know the appetite for training is huge and we are in conversation with many customers that are keen to move forward with training.”

New Trade Windows of Bristol is already taking advantage of the training. The company has committed to nine apprenticeships across fabrication, management, team leading and customer services.

Director Dan Stone said: “Being able to access training via Epwin Window Systems’ Connect platform is huge for us. It removes many of the barriers to getting high quality training and is helping us build a skilled, motivated workforce for the future.”

Gerald said: “There are numerous initiatives to fund the cost of training, so it really is a win-win situation. For example, if you are an SME who doesn’t pay into the Apprenticeship Levy system then the government will fund 95% of course costs, and other government initiatives are also available subject to eligibility too.”