Utility Week

UTILITY WEEK | 28TH JUNE - 4TH JULY 2019 | 23 Operations & Assets Every operative in the alliance is automatically eligible and encouraged to work towards GNSM qualification. The system has been designed to pro- mote fairness as qualification levels are linked to progression and promo- tion via a development path, which enables those involved to develop skills and experience at their own pace. Staff development and training is a key priority for both Morrison Util- ity Services (MUS) and Wales & West Utilities (WWU), with both organisa- tions offering a comprehensive range of training plans and development opportunities. There was a realisation, however, from both companies that there was a need for a single, consist- ent development programme, which would benefit both MUS and WWU employees within the WGA. This was due to the fact that, previ- ously, workers in the WGA would work in a collaborative and integrated man- ner despite having gone through sepa- rate, isolated training regimes within the two organisations, with courses open to some and off limits to others. Rationalisation An additional complication was the wide range of courses available, mak- ing it difficult for individuals to iden- tify the best training options for their long-term career prospects. To create the improved, singular process, the spectrum of disparate ele- ments was coalesced into a single sys- tem, which could be used to create a logical sequence of qualifications from absolute beginner to area manager. A simple record of achievement was devised in tandem, providing a snap- shot of each learner's qualifications and certificates to allow easy access and assessment. Building on this, a unified table aids in spotting training gaps, enabling workers to take control of their training needs and target miss- ing and desired modules. Behind this simple snapshot is coursework, photographs, inspection reports, and documents to ensure a consistent and standardised portfolio of individual achievements. This sys- tem also provides evidence for review and adjudications. The record of achievement enables individuals to set their own training targets within their own timescales. As well as this, it assigns managers within the alliance with the authority to inspect and sign off the modules when they are passed, meaning that each person can take responsibility for their own learning under appropriate supervision. The initiative, an industry first, meets the requirements of the Insti- tution of Gas Engineers & Managers' transmission and distribution compe- tence framework, and in April 2018 it achieved accreditation with Energy & Utility Skills, so the system's qualifica- tions are recognised across the UK and Europe. The framework has been effective in facilitating learning and develop- ment of skills for people across the alliance on a level playing field that encourages and rewards hard work. This has led to a significant increase in staff engagement and attraction to MUS from the armed forces, competi- tors, and new entrants to the industry. Providing a pathway for everyone in the alliance to work towards GNSM qualification also ensures fairness by linking qualification levels to pay bands, through a system that enables candidates to work through their pro- gression at their own pace. Many areas are deliberately not specific to increase options of flexibility which might not be available in a more prescriptive training plan. MUS executive director Sean Kelly, who was instrumental in the devel- opment of the GNSM initiative, com- ments: "Our people on the Wales & West Utilities contract now have access to a career path of nationally recognised qualifications which will provide transferable skills, logical pro- gression and career development and the ability to specialise according to talent. "This programme allows candi- dates to set their own training agendas within a regulated framework, provid- ing a career path with the scope to grow with an individual at a pace that suits them. This is the blueprint for the minimum standard for all MUS gas sector contracts. Our aim is to extend the programme to other contracts over the forthcoming year." For those entering the alliance as trainees, the programme simplifies an otherwise daunting list of course and qualifications into a single logical path which provides specific, short-term, and deliverable goals. The Western Gas Alliance on Awards night at London's Grosvenor House Hotel with guest host Sue Perkins (left) and Utility Week editor Suzanne Heneghan (right)  The 2019 Utility Week Awards are now open for entry. Sponsorship opportunities are available – contact Utility Week business development manager Ben Hammond on benhammond@ fav-house.com or 01342 332116 for more information. Winner's comments "From vision to delivery and a development plan, I was so delighted to receive this recognition for the Gas Network Site Manager (GNSM) programme. The GNSM programme gives our people working on the Western Gas Alliance, on behalf of Wales & West Utilities, access to a career path of nationally recognised qualifications, providing transferable skills. This award represents fantastic and prestigious industry recognition for this incredible programme and I would like to congratulate all those who have contributed to its development and subsequent success." SEAN KELLY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MORRISON UTILITY SERVICES

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