Skills for Security - Experts & Thought Leaders

Skills for Security, the UK’s major provider of fire and security apprenticeships, has announced a new sponsorship partnership with Fike, a global pioneer in fire suppression, explosion protection, and pressure relief solutions. The partnership will enhance the training and development of apprentices across the UK, helping to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the life safety and security sectors. Fike’s involvement will bring valuable industry insight, technical expertise, and access to latest technology. Life safety systems Fike’s reputation for delivering high-performance life safety systems - trusted in industries from data centres to manufacturing - makes them an ideal partner to support Skills for Security’s goal of delivering future-ready training that reflects real-world demands. “Fike’s support is a strong endorsement of the quality and relevance of our training programs,” said David Scott, Managing Director at Skills for Security. “Their expertise will help us continue to raise standards in life safety education and ensure our learners are fully prepared for the challenges of the modern fire and security industry.” Curriculum development As a sponsor, Fike will contribute to curriculum development, provide access to real-world case studies As a sponsor, Fike will contribute to curriculum development, provide access to real-world case studies and technologies, and engage with learners through guest sessions and industry visits. The collaboration is designed to offer apprentices deeper insight into the systems and standards shaping today’s safety-critical environments. “At Fike, we believe safety starts with education,” added Colin Smith, Fire Manager Europe at Fike. “Partnering with Skills for Security is a meaningful way for us to help build a stronger, more knowledgeable workforce for the future. We’re proud to support the next generation of professionals who will be responsible for using life safety technology to protect lives and assets.” Skills shortage This new sponsorship supports Skills for Security’s wider mission to address the skills shortage across the fire and security sectors by expanding access to high-quality, employer-led training. With Fike on board, apprentices will benefit from an even richer educational environment, blending theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience. Skills for Security continues to work closely with employers, manufacturers, and industry bodies to shape training that reflects current and future industry needs.

Skills for Security, the UK’s pioneering fire and security apprenticeship provider, has appointed Gavin Wilson as Head of Sales, reinforcing its commitment to industry development and workforce investment. Bringing nearly 20 years of experience in the security sector, Gavin offers a clear understanding of the industry's challenges and opportunities. His career spans a diverse range of organisations-from national service providers to local installers-giving him a unique perspective on what the industry needs to grow and thrive. Future of the industry Gavin Wilson says: "This is an opportunity to be part of something truly impactful. I’ve seen first-hand how challenging it is for businesses to find skilled engineers, and I’m passionate about changing that." He adds, "Skills for Security is already doing exceptional work to shape the future of the industry, and I’m excited to contribute to its continued growth. I want to create real pathways for young people unfamiliar with careers in security and show them the opportunities this industry holds." Next generation of skilled professionals This appointment comes at a crucial time for Skills for Security as it expands its national presence This appointment comes at a crucial time for Skills for Security as it expands its national presence and strengthens efforts to build the next generation of skilled professionals. As the sector faces growing demand for technically proficient professionals, training providers like Skills for Security play a vital role in closing the skills gap. New training initiatives Gavin’s role will focus on strengthening employer partnerships, expanding apprenticeship programmes, and advancing the organisation’s national strategy. Gavin will also help shape new training initiatives that reflect the evolving demands of modern security careers. Gavin’s experience in industry David Scott, Managing Director of Skills for Security, said: "The demand for new talent across the sector continues to grow, and we’re focused on strengthening our ability to meet that challenge." He adds, "Gavin’s experience and industry insight make him well-placed to help us engage more employers and expand our reach. His appointment reflects our ongoing investment in the people and partnerships needed to support the future of the industry." Future needs of the security industry With an expanding network of training centres and a growing team of sector specialists, Skills for Security remains committed to raising standards and delivering outstanding learning experiences.  Gavin’s appointment is a strategic step forward in meeting the future needs of the security industry.

Skills for Security welcomes EFT Group as a new sponsor, further strengthening its mission to develop the next generation of skilled professionals in the fire and security industry. As one of the UK’s pioneering fire and security training providers, Skills for Security works closely with industry partners to improve training standards and create real opportunities for young people entering the sector. Next generation of skilled engineers Speaking on the partnership, Jordan Duggan, Group Director at EFT Group, said: "At EFT Group, we are passionate about investing in the future of our industry." "Supporting Skills for Security is an important step in ensuring young professionals have access to training programmes and hands-on experience they need to succeed. We’re excited to contribute to the development of the next generation of skilled fire and security engineers." Fire, security and electrical services The new sponsorship will see EPT Group contribute to growing training options, ensuring apprentices EFT Group is a pioneering provider of fire, security and electrical services, delivering high-quality solutions across various sectors, including residential, commercial, and public services. The new sponsorship will see EFT Group contribute to expanding training opportunities, ensuring apprentices gain practical, real-world experience with smart security solutions. Their involvement is a testament to the growing recognition across the industry that investment in training is essential for long-term success. Impressive list of sponsors David Scott, Managing Director of Skills for Security, added: "Collaboration with industry pioneers is key to ensuring we provide the highest standard of training. Having EFT Group on board as a sponsor further enhances our ability to deliver hands-on learning experiences and equip apprentices with the skills they need to thrive in the fire and security industry. Their commitment to professional development aligns perfectly with our mission." The new partnership follows an impressive list of sponsors recently joining Skills for Security. This includes most recently Nimbus Digital and Gallagher Security as platinum partners and Videcon, Eagle Eye Networks, and Paxton Access Control who joined to enhance training opportunities for its apprentices.