TClarke represents building services sector on government’s new Construction Skills Mission Board
Recognising our scale and long-term success in skills training, TClarke is representing
building services (mechanical, electrotechnical, plumbing and related specialisms). Both ECA
(Electrical Contractors Association) and EBBSA (Engineering & Building Skills Authority) have been
appointed to support Mark Lawrence, CEO of TClarke, in fulfilling his role on the Board.
The construction industry faces significant challenges in developing the skilled workforce that the
country needs. While TClarke has remained committed to apprenticeships and skills training
throughout the decades and across various economic phases, the construction sector has struggled to
do the same. The Construction Skills Mission Board aims to expand the workforce in the built
environment by fostering collaboration between employers, industry experts, education providers and
government.
Moreover, engineering and building services have an essential (and growing) significance for the built
environment – typically contributing 40% of new-build value and 80% of whole-life value.
Commenting on the new Industry led mission board, Mark Lawrence said:
“The word specialist is key. At first glance, our sector might appear to be just ‘pipes and wires’, but
behind every finished installation lies a complex network of technical skill, engineering expertise, and
years of experience.
“It’s also important to note that our sector operates outside the remit of the CITB (Construction
Industry Training Board). That makes it even more vital that our voice is clearly heard and fully
understood in this process, and I would reinforce the point that when it comes to skills and training in
our sector, one size does not fit all.
“At a time when another TClarke apprentice – Daniel Brown – has just been awarded first place in
a national apprenticeship award, I am of course proud. But this award reflects the reality that in our
business right across the UK, our frontline engineers take the time, day after day, to support and
guide our young people through the years of their apprenticeship. They share skills, work practices
and approaches, and they do this voluntarily. This constant ongoing commitment of people across our
business is central to our apprenticeship scheme and to our business culture.
“The Construction Skills Mission Board aims to tackle the significant, systemic challenges related to
skills training in our industry. At TClarke, we are committed to collaborating towards meaningful and
positive outcomes for the entire Building Services sector in Britain.”
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