The role of the WITForum

The Woodworking Industry Training Forum (WITForum) is the BWF initiative established to tackle the skills and training shortages facing the woodworking and joinery manufacturing sector and the wider construction industry.

WITForum is made up of BWF members who meet throughout the year, to work together in supporting the development of the woodworking and joinery manufacturing industry’s existing and future workforce. The BWF are proud to work with such a passionate and pro-active group, who give up their time to push skills and training development for the greater good of the whole industry.

General aims of WITForum

To provide a forum for BWF members to establish their skills and training needs and have a stake in their own future.
To increase the provision of woodworking and joinery skills and training.
To support the delivery of trainers to provide their students with the skills the industry needs.
To promote apprenticeships and a career in woodworking.

Supporting the Sector Workforce

The WITForum provides an avenue to identify or develop appropriate skills and training solutions, to find, develop and retain skilled labour. Through consultation across the sector and wider construction industry, the WITForum undertakes periodic review of the existing skills and training offer and looks to develop, or source, additional solutions as required.

Working in collaboration with the BWF-approved training provider network and on behalf of BWF members, WITForum has agreed on the following strategic targets for the year ending March 2025

Increase and support the recruitment of new entrants to the sector.
Continue to support skills development and upskilling within the sector workforce.
Support formal education routes for career entry and progression in craft skills within the sector.
Improve and expand training provision for the sector.
Influence and/or broker service.

Interested In Getting Involved?

BWF members of all sizes are invited to have their voice heard and to be part of the WITForum. If you would like to get involved and help shape the industry’s future, then please contact Ian Gurling, BWF Training Manager.

Email Ian