Global Lifting Awareness Day 2025 aims to close lifting industry skills gap

Global Lifting Awareness Day (GLAD), set to take place on June 1, 2025, under the theme "Lifting Careers, Building Futures," aims to address one of the most pressing issues facing the lifting industry today: the shortage of skilled workers. As the demand for lifting equipment and engineering expertise grows, industry leaders recognise that the future hinges on attracting a new generation of talent. With this initiative, the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA) hopes to inspire interest among those considering careers in this vital sector.

Significantly, GLAD will feature the unveiling of the LEEA's extensive “State of the Lifting Industry” survey, providing insights into the current landscape and the ongoing recruitment challenges that hinder the sector. The association is actively seeking input from its members and other stakeholders regarding their efforts to mitigate these skills gaps. By encouraging participants to share their experiences and initiatives, LEEA aims to foster a collaborative environment focused on recruitment and retention strategies.

To facilitate engagement, LEEA has outlined several ways in which companies can participate. One innovative approach involves submitting short videos highlighting personal journeys into the lifting industry, offering advice for newcomers, or sharing efforts made to bridge the skills gap. This initiative not only showcases the rich narratives within the industry but also serves as a practical tool for attracting potential talent.

Furthermore, LEEA is calling on organisations to consider local outreach activities, such as open days that invite the public and local schools to learn about career opportunities in lifting. These initiatives can create pathways for young people and foster awareness about the diverse roles within the industry.

The importance of this event cannot be understated; it reflects a broader movement within various sectors to address skills shortages through collaboration and innovation. Previous discussions and reports have underscored that effective recruitment strategies not only involve showcasing available positions but also cultivating an environment that encourages ongoing professional development and career progression.

The upcoming event will also include a special industry report and a webinar hosted by LEEA's CEO, Dr. Ross Moloney, along with the Director of Membership, Matt Barber. These sessions aim to provide valuable insights into the most pressing issues surrounding workforce shortages while equipping employers with best practices and resources for recruitment. Reports from similar initiatives indicate that involving industry leaders in discussions around apprenticeships, military resettlement programmes, and effective interview techniques can yield fruitful results in filling workforce gaps.

Moreover, GLAD serves as an essential opportunity for participants to take advantage of the resources available through LEEA, including guidance on recruitment strategies tailored to the lifting industry. The rise of digital platforms and social media also presents a unique avenue for promoting careers in lifting. By leveraging hashtags such as #GLAD2025, supporters can amplify their messages and draw attention to the exciting possibilities within the sector.

As the lifting industry faces a critical juncture, initiatives such as GLAD are vital to ensuring that the necessary talent pipeline is not only filled but also nurtured. By focusing on education, engagement, and community outreach, the industry can proactively shape a future that is equipped to meet emerging challenges and innovations.

Attendees and participants are encouraged to embrace this opportunity not only as a day of awareness but as a catalyst for long-term change. As highlighted by past discussions on workforce readiness, aligning industry standards with educational pathways can ensure that the lifting profession remains a viable and attractive option for future generations.

In essence, GLAD embodies a collective commitment to tackling skills shortages head-on, while fostering a sense of pride in the lifting industry and the careers it offers. This proactive approach not only addresses immediate workforce needs but also lays the groundwork for sustainable growth in the years to come.