Wendy Belfield, a member of the Training and Skills Group, set up by the Federation of Environmental Trade Associations (FETA), has been appointed to the Industry Competence Committee (ICC).
The ICC has been set up by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to monitor and help to improve industry competence.
According to a statement, ICC members are appointed in order to help the committee act as an industry leader in promoting and facilitating an improvement of competence across the built environment, by providing direction and influence.
The ICC will also publish guidance and advise industry and the Building Safety Regulator on industry competence.
Wendy spearheaded the introduction of the BEMS Controls Engineer Apprenticeship, a statement has said. She received the Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) Outstanding Contribution of the Year Award in 2020.
As part of her voluntary work in the sector, Wendy has been promoting the key role of T Levels in starting the professional route to competence at 16. T Levels are occupation based qualifications for 16 to 19 year olds and include 45 days on industrial placement.
Each T Level is equivalent in size to three A Levels and helps young people develop the knowledge, attitude and practical skills to thrive in the workplace.
The FETA Training and Skills Group has been examining the way in which T Levels can help member companies work with colleges to recruit more young people into the industry.
Wendy said: “I am very proud to be appointed on to the ICC which I believe can have a huge impact going forward as we look to close the skills gap within our industry whilst ensuring that professional competence is achieved.
“There is a massive skills shortage in a very competitive marketplace and it’s a massive challenge for our sector, particularly for SMEs.”
Chris Yates, FETA’s chief executive, added: “I am delighted that Wendy has been appointed to the Industry Competence Committee.
“She has been instrumental within the BCIA and FETA in terms of developing the skills agenda and course development which has delivered huge benefits for the industry.
“I am sure she will make a solid contribution to the Committee with a strong industry and education background.”