Construction BUSINESS

The Saint-Gobain Ireland Technical Academy has announced that it is adding to its existing training portfolio by launching a series of nZEB modular courses. Starting this July, these innovative nZEB courses will offer those working in construction in Ireland a chance to up-skill, free of charge, in an increasingly regulated area of the construction industry.

The European Energy Performance of Buildings Directive Recast (EPBD) requires all new buildings to be nearly Zero Energy Buildings (nZEB) by 31st December 2020, with Irish Building Regulations enforcing these nZEB requirements in 2019, ahead of the EPBD deadline. The Directive will require all construction professionals to adhere to the nZEB standard and undergo upskilling to meet the requirements of the sustainable building agenda.

Up-skilling is vital in the construction industry, as demonstrated by a recent survey of 250 construction professionals, conducted by Saint-Gobain. The survey highlighted that over one third of industry professionals see a skills shortage as the biggest risk factor facing the industry over the next 10 years. An uplifting finding that came from the survey was that, even though the construction industry has gone through a difficult time over the last number of years, 68% of respondents are proud of the current work being done by the industry, with nearly 70% believing that there are suitable career opportunities in the industry.

Saint-Gobain recognises the importance of upskilling construction professionals and is committed to addressing the rising skills shortage. Over the last two years, the Saint-Gobain Technical Academy has trained and up-skilled over 2,500 industry professionals free of charge at its Technical Academy.

Brian Dolan, Managing Director of Saint-Gobain Construction Products Ireland, commented: “The next two years will see exceptional changes in the upskilling of the construction industry and Saint-Gobain is dedicated to leading the progression of best practice within the sector, particularly when it comes to improving energy efficiency in our built environment.’’

Pat Barry, Chief Executive Officer for the Irish Green Building Council, added: “Buildings have a significant role in the reduction of emissions in Ireland. It is essential that our buildings become more energy efficient and It is very encouraging to see Saint-Gobain implement educational initiatives that will assist in reducing emissions and improve energy efficiency’’

For more details of the course and how to apply visit:

http://www.saint-gobain.ie/technical-academy

CAPTION:

Pictured are: Jason Horrex, Training Manger of Technical Academy at Saint-Gobain Ireland; Pat Barry, Chief Executive Officer for the Irish Green Building Council; and Brian Dolan, Managing Director of Saint-Gobain Construction Products Ireland, at the launch of Saint Gobain Technical Academy’s latest nZEB modular courses.