Where is the next generation of FM managers coming from?

The impending retirement of the older generation of facilities managers across the UK has always been ringing the ala…

The impending retirement of the older generation of facilities managers across the UK has always been ringing the alarm bell.

The need for a skilled new workforce which has what it needs to take over the reigns in coming years has always been an issue in the industry and a lack of training has often been one of the main concerns.

Now investment is being made into the thriving facilities management arena to help develop these stars of tomorrow.

£1m has been invested in higher level apprenticeships in facilities management as part of a move to promote the industry amongst a younger workforce. The new apprenticeship offers a national degree-level equivalent qualification in facilities management and aims to create a clear career route to take in order to work in facilities management.

The employer-led skills body for facilities management, Asset Skills, believes that about 50 per cent of the new apprenticeships will be in the public sector. Asset Skills described the investment in higher level apprenticeship as a boost in facilities management, professionalising the role as well as creating a defined career structure.

The move has also been backed by the British Institute of Facilities Management, the professional organisation for those working in facilities management.

The first 60 apprenticeships will be available from October, with another 150 next March.