Scotland’s window of opportunity is now wide open

Scottish firms are keen to ensure their companies remain at the forefront of the latest skills developments, as this enhances Scotland’s UK-wide and global position as a first-class manufacturing base.

The approach also underlines how training people to the highest standard, in areas such as Ayrshire and Lanarkshire, can bring significant added value to the west of Scotland metropolitan region and to Scotland as a whole.

Thirteen candidates from Scotia Double Glazing in Kilmarnock and 12 from Independent Glass in Rutherglen are now leading their field, having earned Level 2 SVQs in the Production of Glass Supporting Fabrications and Glass Processing. They are the first trainees in Scotland to be recognised by the Glass Qualifications Authority, since industry standards were revised in June 2004.

Ayr-based RT Resources worked closely with the companies to develop a customised SVQ qualification that would meet their needs. The specialist support and method of delivery used by RT resources was vital to the success of the programme.

Operators at Independent Glass in Lanarkshire and Scotia in Ayrshire have improved their accuracy and efficiency, benefiting quality and customer satisfaction levels. It’s hoped the programme can be used as a model by other companies to help bolster the west of Scotland’s reputation as a valuable manufacturing base, with highly skilled personnel.

Evelyn McCann, Chief Executive of Scottish Enterprise Ayrshire, said: “This programme is something that has been devised in conjunction with the training provider and the Glass Qualifications Authority in direct response to demand from the industry. It’s vitally important that we provide support to companies who are developing our reputation in the manufacturing sector both nationally and internationally.”