Training Report

Adapting to Changing Needs

When it comes to education and training, BVAA has a varied and multi-faceted role to play, and one which seems to change constantly.

In addition to taking care of the needs of the members of the Association, we have also chosen to ensure our industry’s valued customers have access to totally independent valve and actuator training. Consequently, notwithstanding the odd seasonal fluctuation, BVAA consistently serves both members and non-members alike in virtually equal number.

The BVAA lecturing team is drawn from a small cadre of volunteers, all with decades of unrivalled experience, and to whom we express our grateful thanks.

As a discretionary spend, Training has understandably been hard hit this year due to the economic climate. The UKCS in particular has suffered major staff losses this year. However, we have also been were aware that customers’ needs are changing too, and the demand for our introductory courses has subsequently been affected.

For example, last year’s new course, ‘Advanced Level’ Valves, has rapidly overtaken its Introduction to Valves forebear, previously our most popular course by a distance. Delving much deeper into topics relating to materials, corrosion, design etc., it has clearly been a hit with customers.

We have also strengthened our relationship with the National Fluid Power Centre, with whom we deliver regular basic courses on hydraulics, pneumatics and electrics. New courses are also in discussion.

Another feature of 2016 was the major refurbishment of our training exhibits. Several movable rigs were acquired to mount our static valves, each dedicated to a particular course. Actuators-a-plenty came from Auma, Rotork and further items are en route from Zoedale, all of which encourage student interaction. There was also a splendid Diaphragm Valves unit donated by Gemu, with many more individual items coming from members – we always welcome more.

A lesser-known option is BVAA’s ability to deliver courses in-house, something we have been delighted to arrange for members and non-members alike. We also offer free in-house training to major customers who in return host a BVAA Desktop exhibition, a win-win situation for both parties in these straitened times. We are also delighted to hear from customers who might be interested in BVAA developing more bespoke courses for their own particular needs.

Scheduled course dates are posted throughout the year at www.bvaa.org.uk/ training or contact karen@bvaa.org.uk

Published: 5th February 2017