On January 26 ttjonline reported the news that the Confederation of Timber Industry (CTI) had published the largest employer skills questionnaire ever undertaken in the UK’s timber industry supply chain.

This is an important development as the last major survey of employers in the timber sector was undertaken in 2011 and we now want to hear current views on the skills shortages and gaps in education provision within the whole timber industry supply chain, from traders and distributors to manufacturers and merchants.

The CTI strongly believes that improving education and skills is critical to ensure that timber leads the way in 21st century construction. Last year we set up a specific group of supporters working in timber related education and they agreed that to start with we need to answer some basic questions.

For example, how do we build on existing programmes like MakeIT! to develop engagement between industry and schools? Design and technology qualifications for young people do cover relevant content on graphic design, wood and furniture making but the quality and quantity of provision is hugely dependent on teacher experience and motivation.

And while the industry is keen to encourage more young people to start working in the timber sector, the National Careers Service now operates only through websites and phone lines due to budget cuts. The lack of face-to-face guidance in schools has had a significant impact. So how do we get information about the industries out to young people more effectively?

Another question is how do we increase the number and use of regulated qualifications? Succession planning for an ageing workforce and gaps in provision are issues which need to be addressed. Few young people are now deciding to pursue a career in the timber industries. This issue is exacerbated by the limited offer of further and higher education courses, apprenticeships and craft qualifications that affects the growth of the whole sector.

The launch of this major survey represents a great opportunity for the timber industries to answer some of these key policy questions. Depending on what they say the CTI could raise the profile of the industry with young people by supporting the launch of new timber related courses as well as helping to increase the number of apprenticeships and to develop an ambassadorial schools network across the supply chain.

The CTI has commissioned Proskills to conduct the survey as well as map current education provision, highlighting gaps between supply and demand. This new report could provide a catalyst for the engagement of the industry in improving skills, recruitment and training. The CTI will present the findings to government and key stakeholders at our inaugural conference in May in order to shape the political agenda on education and skills.

But first of all we need to get your feedback so please help us to reflect what you need in the workplace.