A UNIQUE industry-backed training organisation has marked a 60 year milestone in its history with a diamond anniversary celebration.
Darlington-based Thermal Insulation Contractors Association (TICA), the sole provider of thermal insulation apprenticeships within the UK, celebrated with members at a champagne reception followed by a black tie dinner at the Manchester Hilton Deansgate Hotel.
Founded in its current format in 1957, TICA has been representing members within the industrial and commercial insulation sector for over six decades.
The trade association, set up to maintain industry skills and bring about a collective working agreement, represents over 100 members across the UK in a diverse range of industries, from engineering contractors to the commercial heating and the ventilation sector.
All members are actively involved in maintaining the association’s national training centre through voluntary membership fees and training levies.
Addressing partners at the company’s annual general meeting, prior to the celebratory evening event, TICA chief executive Marion Marsland said: “Over the past 60 years TICA has always facilitated member dialogue and by having good dialogue we have managed to keep pace with the many changes to the sector.
“I am most proud of how we collaborate across the sector and pleased we have so many representatives here with us who facilitate what TICA does, including funding providers, educational awarding bodies, trade unions, other construction representative organisations and from our TICA associate members who support us with materials and updates on standards and regulations.”
Originally based in Ilford, Essex, TICA relocated to Yarm Road Business Park, Darlington in 2001.
The association currently employs 18 full-time staff who facilitate the body’s National Training Centre, which trains between 80 and 120 apprentices each year, administer the CSCS TICA skill card, manage membership and all member benefits including HR support, recruitment and general advice and guidance relating to insulation.
The centre is also home to the head office for ACAD, the asbestos control and abatement division of TICA.
“I hope that the future for TICA is another 60 successful years of collaboration,” added Mrs Marsland.
“A future that is constantly changing and adapting to what our members are looking for in their trade body, a future that is about listening and lobbying with a net result to achieve recognition to ensure thermal insulation continues to be recognised as a skilled discipline within the construction industry.”
Former committee member, governing council member and past president of TICA Alan Green was invited to address the celebratory meeting to recognise the collaborative work of industry partners.
“I believe what makes TICA different from other federations and associations is the dedication and commitment of both the chief executive and her team, plus the amount of effort that each of the different arms of TICA put into their area of work, which in turn ensures the federation grows in strength,” said Mr Green.
“The Governing Council, expert legal and HR advice, IETTL, ACAD, the diligent training officers and the bespoke apprentice training, means that TICA is able to offer its members unique and excellent support and advice and puts TICA in a very strong position which can only continue to grow and improve . Here’s to the next 60 years!”
TICA partners were also keen to offer their congratulations to mark the trade association’s diamond anniversary.
Director of operations for CSCS Gordon Jenkins added: “CSCS has enjoyed working with TICA for many years and I strongly believe that our relationship is positive proof of how sectors working together can improve standards that benefit the whole industry.”