BCIA celebrates growth and achievements as it looks towards future initiatives
The British Control Industry Association (BCIA) is celebrating a year marked by considerable achievements and growth as it approaches the end of its first term under President [President's Name]. Reflecting on the past year, which extends until March 2024, the BCIA welcomed 37 new member companies, raising its membership to a total of 190 entities. This expansion underscores the association's commitment to supporting the building controls sector and increasing awareness of the importance of its contributions.
One of the significant milestones in this term was the redesign and launch of the BCIA's official website, which has improved user accessibility and introduced an exclusive platform for members. This newly developed site not only provides essential information regarding upcoming meetings and events but also fosters networking opportunities through dedicated forums where professionals can engage in discussions concerning vital issues related to building controls and automation.
In line with its commitment to youth engagement, March 2024 marked the hosting of the first Young Engineers Network (YEN) event at the Belimo Experience Centre in the UK. Attended by 25 young engineers from various manufacturers and systems integrators, the event consisted of workshops covering topics from valves and air handling units to Belimo’s Sizing and Selection Tool. The proactive engagement with the younger professionals in the field is indicative of the BCIA’s efforts to cultivate the next generation of industry leaders.
The YEN’s activities throughout the year included a visit to the University of Bradford and the YEN Talks Leadership discussion in November. The committee also saw the appointment of new leaders, with Josh Steel taking over as Chair and Stan Thomas as Vice Chair, both of whom are focused on guiding emerging talents in the sector toward sustainable future practices.
The BCIA is also preparing for its prestigious annual awards evening scheduled for Thursday, 2nd May 2024. This anticipated event will bring industry professionals together to celebrate innovation and accomplishments across various categories. The nominations reflect a competitive spirit and high standards throughout the industry.
In additional pursuits, the first cohort of the Inspired Leaders programme was completed in May 2024. This 16-week programme allowed 14 delegates to partake in extensive leadership modules designed to reshape the approach of professionals in building controls and automation to leadership and project management challenges.
As the summer months approached, the BCIA's Members Breakfast series commenced, providing a forum for members to discuss pressing issues such as the skills shortage in the built environment. These gatherings facilitated networking amongst peers and promoted collaborative efforts to address challenges facing the sector.
In collaboration with Gemserv, the BCIA has actively engaged with government bodies to influence policy relating to building controls and automation. As the sector pivots towards sustainability and net-zero initiatives, advocacy in this area has become increasingly crucial. Notably, [President's Name] played a part in the Construct Zero Panel during UK Construction Week in October, contributing to discussions on the Construction Leadership Council’s performance framework aimed at fostering sustainable practices.
Looking ahead to 2025, the BCIA anticipates further advancements, particularly considering recent advice from the Climate Change Committee on the potential energy savings of up to 60% in buildings through enhanced building controls. The association is preparing for a busy agenda, including a series of training courses covering energy efficiency and building energy management systems from now until May.
As excitement builds for the upcoming BCIA Awards 2025, with finalists already announced, the association is keen to engage its members in ongoing development initiatives and collaborative efforts to drive the industry forward. The upcoming year is poised to bring further recognition to the innovative technologies and dedicated professionals who are shaping the future of building controls and automation in the UK.