Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk 88 THE door industry journal winter 2023 Automated Gates & Barriers A Top Year for Training at BFT Automation Leading automation specialist, BFT Automation, trained more than 100 people in the first six months of 2023, in a year that has also seen the appointment of James Downey as its new UK Training Manager. James heads up the BFT UK Training Academy, the company’s dedicated training arm, which offers a range of courses covering gate automation and access control to anti-terrorism bollards, plus technical guidance on the company’s full range of products. James was promoted to the newly created role after spending six years as part of BFT’s technical team, where he gained extensive, hands-on knowledge of BFT products and customer support. The BFT UK Training Academy runs sessions at the company’s Swindon and Stockport offices. Courses are offered at three levels, with an introduction to automation and products at Level 1 and advanced engineers’ courses at Level 2. And a specialist training level including anti-terrorism bollards and pedestrian speed gates. “Installers can really benefit from face-to-face training, where they’re able to practice their new skills by getting hands-on with products and have the chance to ask questions and discuss future projects,” said James. “Whether they attend as an individual or a company team, our range of training courses allows them to choose modules which best match their needs. And not only is training ideal for apprentices and others who are new to installing, we work with installers at all stages in their careers, especially as the automation industry is continuously evolving and future-proofing their skills is important to the installer community. “I try to create a relaxed environment, so instead of feeling like a classroom it’s about working peer-to-peer, offering advice and guidance, plus that all-important chance to get hands-on with products using our working test models.” BFT’s training courses can be tailored for installers who have particular areas in which they are keen to build their skills, or specific products they’d especially like to learn more about. “We’ve always aimed to offer more than just a manual and our training provision has become a bigger focus for our business in response to increased demand from the installers we work with,” added Kevin Spinks, Managing Director at BFT Automation. “With his extensive experience, product knowledge and enthusiasm, James is the ideal person to lead the BFT UK Training Academy and we’re getting great feedback from those who take part.” To find out more about the BFT UK Training Academy, visit: www.bftautomationuk.com/training-academy.html BFT Automation is part of the Somfy group. For more information visit: www.bftautomationuk.com Interested in appearing in the Spring Edition? SAVE THESE DEADLINE DATES: Features Editorial Advert Artwork 15th February 25th February 5th March
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