By David Sherlock, Business Development Manager
It might seem a lifetime ago, what with the challenging times the world is currently facing, but March saw the launch of our new Doncaster training academy.
The event gave potential customers and installing contractors an overview of the academy’s main aim: to provide candidates with valuable insights into all aspects of External Wall Insulation and render solutions. Over 100 people attended the purpose-built training centre, based in Wheatley Hall Road, over the two days. We welcomed a wide range of industry representatives; from seasoned tradesmen looking to experience new EWI products and processes, to newly-trained plasterers hoping to hone their skills.
We were also delighted to welcome curriculum leaders and lecturers from nearby North Lindsey College, and Doncaster College to see the new training facility having recently partnered with them to provide support to the next generation of renderers. The initiative will see our Senior Field Engineer, Chris Kendall, host classes at the colleges to provide practical and theoretical learning in all aspects of render application.
Their presence was particularly gratifying, as the introduction and development of emerging talent is vital for the sustained growth of the plastering, rendering and EWI energy-efficiency industry, and the construction sector as a whole.
Expertly demonstrated
Attendees on both days gained insights into EWI materials, principles and application techniques, and practical demonstrations of projection and spray application methods via spray machines supplied to us by Euromair and CES Hire. The feedback we received on the advice and practical knowledge our experts were able to impart was extremely positive. At this point, I should mention the quality of our catering received equal appreciation – the burgers were delicious!
Without a doubt the invitees’ encouraging response fully-justified our staging of the ‘taster days’, which I hope sets the tone for the academy’s future success. Another of our main aims with the training facility is to expand the ongoing support of the Baumit Approved Contractor network throughout the Midlands and the north. It will also allow us to cement the technical and product knowledge within our existing contractor network.
We hope our Doncaster operation will provide a suitable platform with which to introduce our superb render and EWI product range to more contractors and renderers in the north, which will also benefit from our first-class on-site technical support and general service level.
Product showcase
Additionally, our Doncaster base will provide an excellent springboard when it comes to new product launches and showcases. Baumit SX Airless spray plaster is a product we’re currently really excited about. It’s a product that not only saves time and money based on its speed of application, drying times and improved finish compared to traditional skim methods, its premixed, air-dried lightweight material composition highlights its environmental benefits by reducing on-site water and material wastage.
Innovative spray machinery is revolutionising on-site application. We are thrilled to have recently added three machines to our academies. Learning will now also include best advice on how to install Baumit products mechanically such as our light-weight, lime cement render, KZP 65 and silicone resin render, SiliokonTop to name a couple.
We are also focusing on our Healthy Living range of lime plasters and renders; solutions which are perfectly suited to new-build and heritage projects alike.
A big ‘thank-you’ to all those who helped organise our Doncaster open days; from the experts whose technical insights were pivotal, to the guidance and hospitality offered by all the Baumit team. We look forward to seeing many new faces at our new training academy in the months and years to come.