We are pleased to share that our Director at Energy House Labs, Professor Will Swan, has been appointed Independent Chair of the North West Construction Technical Excellence College (CTEC) Strategic Board.
Led by Wigan & Leigh College, the CTEC is a new government-backed initiative bringing together colleges and employers to strengthen construction skills provision and prepare the workforce for the future demands of the industry.
Professor Swan took on the role at the first CTEC Steering Group and attended the formal launch earlier this week. The initiative is part of a wider national programme designed to transform construction training, combining green, digital, modern and traditional skills to support the development of a highly skilled workforce.
At Energy House Labs, research has consistently highlighted the critical role of skills in delivering a sustainable built environment. In his new position, Professor Swan will help shape the strategic direction of the CTEC, supporting the development of talent pipelines and ensuring the region is equipped with the skills needed for the future.
Professor Swan said:
“The work we have been doing at Energy House Labs identifies skills as a central pillar of delivering a sustainable built environment. The CTEC represents a real opportunity to work collaboratively to address the future skills pipeline, and our research and industry partnerships can help shape that conversation.”
Backed by £100 million in national investment, the network of ten Technical Excellence Colleges aims to train up to 40,000 skilled workers by 2029. This will support ambitions to deliver 1.5 million homes alongside vital national infrastructure.
Delivered in collaboration with East Lancashire Learning Group and Blackpool and The Fylde College, the CTEC will drive high quality construction education and training across the North West. Its approach focuses on strong employer engagement, high quality teaching, and clear progression pathways into construction careers and higher level study.
This appointment reflects the growing influence of Energy House Labs in shaping the future of the built environment, not only through research and testing, but also through leadership in skills and workforce development.