The Technical Apprenticeship Consortium (TAC) has announced that it is pivoting its activity to become a ‘one stop’ resource for the engineering consultancy industry on skills and apprenticeships. In practice, this means that any member of the Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE) or Environmental industries Commission (EIC) that employs, or is thinking of employing, apprentices can now seek advice, support and guidance from TAC for free.

The move away from its subscription model has been made possible through the financial support of ACE together with a contribution from the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE).

Since its launch in 2010, TAC has developed and maintained eight apprenticeship standards at either Level 3 or 6 in civil engineering, building services design engineering, transport planning, railway engineering design and now environmental practice. Last year more than 900 students started one of these eight standards. TAC will continue to manage and support these through its trailblazer groups.

Commenting on the changes to TAC, Director of Membership & Business Engagement at ACE and EIC, Darrell Matthews said: “We’ve made the decision to move away from a limited subscription model so that more ACE and EIC members can benefit from TAC’s expert insight, understanding and guidance. Apprenticeships and skills have never been more important to our industries, which is why I’m sure TAC will have an even greater impact under this new business model.”

TAC has also announced a new Chair with Gareth Drought replacing Chris Burton. Gareth Drought, HR Director at ACE member Tony Gee and Partners, said, “Thanks to Chris’ great work as Chair over the past three years, TAC is in a robust position moving to a new business model. Of course, we’re working through uncertain times, but it’s a challenge I’m relishing.”

He added “TAC has done some great work in its first decade and introduced apprenticeship standards which are popular with students and businesses alike. We enter our second decade with a new purpose and vision, and I look forward to helping as many businesses as possible explore the potential for apprenticeships.”

Chris Burton said: “I’m pleased to leave TAC in the capable hands of Gareth Drought who has been working with TAC behind the scenes since 2010. He knows the organisation and sector inside out, so he will be a great asset as TAC adapt to its new focus.”

TAC’s new purpose and vision will be reflected in an update to its web presence over the coming weeks. ACE and EIC will also be sharing more details on how you can make the most of this new resource soon.

Members with apprenticeship queries are encouraged to contact Kimberly Murphy today.