Skills for Security - Experts & Thought Leaders

Skills for Security is attending the National Apprenticeship Show – London & South East 2025, a key event connecting young people, school leavers, and college graduates with apprenticeship opportunities across various sectors. Role of apprenticeships The show will take place during National Apprenticeship Week 2025 and provides a unique opportunity to highlight the transformative role apprenticeships play in equipping young adults with the skills needed for successful careers. By participating, Skills for Security aims to shine a spotlight on the fire and security industry, a sector that is integral to public safety yet often underrepresented in career conversations. Building a skilled and diverse workforce David Scott, Managing Director of Skills for Security, said "We are looking forward to the National Apprenticeship Show. This event is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the many rewarding careers available in the fire and security sector, while connecting with young people eager to take their first steps into the industry." He adds, "Our goal is to inspire the next generation of talent and highlight the vital role apprenticeships play in building a skilled and diverse workforce for the future." Live apprenticeship vacancies Individuals can explore immediate opportunities to join a dynamic and growing industry The National Apprenticeship Show allows Skills for Security to engage directly with potential apprentices, their families, and educators. Attendees will learn about the breadth of career paths available, ranging from hands-on installation roles to technical support and management positions. With live apprenticeship vacancies being advertised, individuals can explore immediate opportunities to join a dynamic and growing industry. Skills for Security will provide in-depth information on the latest industry developments and technologies. Smart security, AI, and ML From advancements in smart security systems and the use of AI and machine learning to innovations in fire prevention, visitors will gain insights into how the industry continues to evolve and the exciting career potential it offers. David Scott states, "We are looking forward to having the conversations and supporting young people to discover apprenticeship opportunities in fire and security." National Apprenticeship Show  David Scott adds, "We hope it will encourage them to see how they can build meaningful and successful careers in this essential sector." Skills for Security is attending the National Apprenticeship Show in Surrey, taking place from Tuesday, 11 – Wednesday, 12 February 2025.

Skills for Security is proud to announce a new partnership with Eaton, a global pioneer in power management solutions. Eaton has joined Skills for Security as a Platinum Sponsor, marking a significant collaboration aimed at enhancing the fire and security sector through education, innovation, and sustainable practices. Eaton, renowned for its expertise in fire and security systems alongside a whole host of other solutions, will work closely with Skills for Security to support the development and delivery of high-quality apprenticeship training and to aid in the mission of closing the sector skills gap. Eaton Joins Skills for Security as Platinum Sponsor Eaton's sponsorship will enable Skills for Security to expand its capacity to train more apprentices "We are thrilled to welcome Eaton as a Platinum Sponsor," said David Scott, Managing Director of Skills for Security, adding "Their extensive experience and dedication to innovation align perfectly with our mission to provide top-tier training and development opportunities. Together, we aim to elevate industry standards and prepare the workforce for future challenges." Eaton's sponsorship will enable Skills for Security to expand its capacity to train more apprentices, enhance its educational resources, and provide greater access to industry-renowned products and expertise. Advancing industry standards "We are excited to partner with Skills for Security and contribute to the growth and development of the sector," said Peter Regan, Product Line Manager of Eaton Intrusion, adding "As a Platinum Sponsor, we look forward to sharing our knowledge and resources to help build a more skilled and prepared workforce. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in all aspects of our work." The partnership between Eaton and Skills for Security represents a shared vision of advancing industry standards and promoting a culture of continuous learning. By joining forces, both organizations are poised to make a significant impact on the future of the fire and security sector.

The British Security Industry Association (BSIA) has appointed Martin Watson as its new Chair at the Association’s Spring Forum and Annual General Meeting. With a background in fire, security and engineering spanning 40 years, Martin is currently Industry Laison Director for BSIA members - Mitie Fire & Security Systems; he is also the Chair of the Fire Industry Association (FIA), and until recently, was Chair of the Association’s Security Systems section. BSIA’s New Chairman Martin Watson will take over the role from Simon Banks, who was appointed Chair in July 2018, overseeing significant changes over a six-year period. Simon departs as the BSIA’s longest serving Chairman in its 57-year history. Simon departs as the BSIA’s longest serving Chairman in its 57-year history Mike Reddington, Chief Executive, BSIA, said: "On behalf of the BSIA and its members, I would like to thank our outgoing Chair Simon Banks for his guidance, support and work over the last six years as we addressed many issues the BSIA were facing, and I am delighted with the progress we have made during this time in addressing those issues and truly establishing the BSIA as the recognized voice of the professional security industry." He adds, "We look forward to working with our new Chairman Martin Watson as we build on the strong foundations, we have built over the last six years and we further progress the BSIA in shaping and developing the Professional Security Industry on behalf of our members and the wider industry." Simon Banks' Achievements at BSIA Simon Banks, outgoing Chair, BSIA, said: “I am pleased to see the many achievements at BSIA over the last six years. Recent robust finances have allowed us to form the Special Project Fund that has invested £400k directly to Member Companies for their nominated projects and good causes. All profits from BSIA’s part-stake in Skills for Security (SfS) feed directly into this fund." He adds, "SfS has also transformed from a £300K loss in 2018 to a profitable enterprise with 85 staff, delivering essential skills to our sector with 1000 apprentices live on program. I remain as Executive Chairman for Skills for Security and am excited to continue our growth with the talented team we’ve built." Simon Banks continues, "In parting from the BSIA, I would like to thank the dedicated team for their efforts; I was a reluctant Chairman, turning down the role twice before getting onboard and changing out the CEOs of both Skills for Security and BSIA, both companies were suffering extreme financial turbulence. I wish everyone well and hope to see the association evolve in sync with an ever-changing sector." Opportunities and challenges Martin Watson, Chair, BSIA, said: "I am delighted to be taking over the reigns as Chair of this great Association and want to thank Simon, the BSIA team, the rest of the Board and all our contributing members for all their hard work. It is such important work that our member companies do and the BSIA works hard to provide valuable support to them." He adds, "It is an ever-changing landscape we operate in though, so we still have much to do, and I am looking forward to addressing both the opportunities and challenges our industry faces."