The journey to success begins here…

The building controls industry is a fascinating place to work, it can also be highly complex due to the advances in technology and innovation. As a result, this is creating exciting opportunities for new talent to join an ever-evolving sector where there are prospects to make a real difference to today’s smart and modern buildings. But everyone has to begin somewhere…

There are many global challenges that are creating a necessity for change and the next generation of engineers have the real opportunity to shape this transformation for the future. New and creative engineers will be at the forefront of meeting the increasing demands, so it really is a wonderful time to be entering the world of engineering. In order to create the foundations for this change, we all need to invest in training the future engineers and leaders of tomorrow.

Training is essential for personal success in the world of building controls, due to ongoing advancements in technology, legislation and growing demands. However, it could appear a little daunting to those wishing to take the big leap into the dynamic controls sector and be faced with technical challenges and new terminology. The same also applies to those considering a career change from an electrician for example to a building controls engineer – training remains an essential component for success regardless of the career path taken.

The BCIA is making that transition smooth and straightforward for anyone looking to move into our rewarding sector. This is why the BCIA recently launched a new and improved introductory building controls course: BCM00 Introduction to Building Controls and HVAC training course.

This course is the ideal starting point for anyone wishing to gain understanding and insight into the world of building controls and to develop their knowledge and awareness of the subject. It provides facilities and estate managers, electricians and building services trades personnel, (including marketing and PR staff), with a detailed understanding of day to day involvement in building controls and HVAC. The course covers key topics, such as basic control of heating, types of control heating systems, primary heating plant, distribution of heating, hot water service and centralised HWS.

What’s more, the BCM00 training course gives an opportunity for those new to the building controls sector to get up to speed quickly. The course offers a fantastic progression route for those wishing to transfer from another sector or are considering a new career path, as this can be followed by the suite of six CPD-accredited courses: BCM01-06. After passing BCM01-03, delegates will receive the BCIA Technical Certificate and on successful completion of BCM04-06 the BCIA Advanced Technical Certificate.

The building controls sector has endless opportunities for new talent who can make a substantial difference to people’s quality of life and wellbeing, as well as the buildings of tomorrow and the controls industry in general. So, it is essential as an industry to work together, share practices, inspire and motivate new talent to join our sector by showcasing the range of development opportunities on offer. By doing this, we will continue to ensure that the building controls industry is skilled, is going from strength to strength, launching careers and making real positive change.