In an industry such as building services, which is highly susceptible to legislative and technological developments, ongoing learning and development are prerequisites for both individual and collective success. Updating and enhancing skills and competencies, as well as improving personal performance have positive effects throughout an organisation. It is important that ongoing, planned and effective training programmes are available for professionals of all ages, levels of experience and seniority.

From an organisational perspective, it is vital that CPD fits into the workplace, providing learning opportunities that are suitable and relevant to the work that is carried out on a daily basis, thus maximising the performance of your staff. On a more individual level, learning should be an essential part of your job, not an extra if time permits. Generally, for everyone to get the most out of the ever-increasing learning opportunities available, it is crucial that CPD is part of a long-term planned development strategy.

There are at least two other drivers for all of us to engage in professional development. First, technology is continuing to develop quickly, whether it is the IT revolution, materials or the application of science. Second, it is widely accepted that human beings remain active and alert if they continue to stay focused and maintain awareness of new challenges. The mundane and routine kill motivation and innovation – how could our profession be considered boring when there are so many new challenges and opportunities? Let’s keep our minds fresh.

At CIBSE, a recognition of the value of CPD in today’s workplace has led us over the past year to set up a new professional learning programme. CIBSE training is targeted at the full spectrum of building services professionals, the Professional Learning courses offer practical training to those new to building services and those who wish to further develop their competence and expertise. This cycle of evaluation, planning, practice and re-evaluation is tremendously rewarding, and is the real message, the real value of CPD.

I hope you find this supplement interesting. I’m sure you'll find it useful.

Source

Building Sustainable Design

Postscript

Stephen Matthews, CIBSE Chief Executive