INDUSTRY NEWS
HOWARD TROTTER SHINES SPOTLIGHT ON INCLUSIVE RECRUITMENT AND APPRENTICESHIPS AT GLAZING SUMMIT
» HOWARD TROTTER, BUSINESS Manager at Birmingham-based window and door manufacturer Shelforce, took to the stage at this year’ s Glazing Summit 2025 to speak on one of the industry’ s most pressing challenges – skills and recruitment.
Held at the Coventry Building Society Arena, the Glazing Summit brought together leaders from across the fenestration sector, with Howard joining the‘ Skills: Apprentices in Action’ panel alongside Ultraframe’ s Andrew Thompson and GGF’ s John Mannell. The discussion focused on apprenticeships, attracting new talent, and increasing diversity across the industry.
As the driving force behind Shelforce’ s award-winning inclusive employment strategy, where 75 % of its workforce has a disability, Howard shared powerful insights into the company’ s approach to nurturing talent and creating a culture where everyone can thrive.
“ I was delighted to be a guest speaker at this year’ s Glazing Summit,” said Howard.“ It was a fantastic opportunity to talk about how we get new people into the industry and shine a spotlight on the success we’ ve had at Shelforce through inclusive recruitment.
“ From a business point of view, 13 years ago we were facing closure. Back in 2013, we were achieving around £ 24K per head, and in 2025 we’ re now exceeding £ 260K per head in efficiency.”
At the heart of Shelforce’ s model is a work experience programme designed to give individuals the time, support and confidence to succeed.
“ It’ s all about creating the right environment,” Howard added.“ That applies just as much to apprentices. You’ ve got to focus on what they can do, not what they can’ t. Our core values and culture are crucial for retention; if you invest in people, they will give that investment back and diversity takes care of itself if you have the right culture.
“ At Shelforce, we’ ve benefitted from the in-built resilience of disabled workers who are exceptionally loyal, dedicated, and motivated. As an industry, it’ s critical that we bring new people in as we’ ve all got a shelf life. Our success proves that the right people are out there if businesses and willing to look and make a commitment.”
www. shelforce. com
Paul Ramsey named finalist for Unsung Hero honour
» SHELFORCE TECHNICAL SPECIALIST PAUL Ramsey has been shortlisted for the Unsung Hero Award at this year’ s G-Awards.
Paul, who has been a dedicated member of the Shelforce team for more than 39 years, is one of eight finalists recognised for their contributions to their respective employers and the industry. The winner will be announced at a glittering black-tie ceremony at the London
Hilton on Park Lane on Friday, 28 November 2025.
Living with cerebral palsy, Paul has spent nearly four decades overcoming significant physical challenges to play a vital role on the factory floor, fitting hinges and handles into PVCu window sashes to ensure the safety and performance of products installed in social housing and local authority projects.
He also undergoes regular physiotherapy because he is determined to stay
physically capable to be able to come to work and remain an active contributor to the team.
“ Paul embodies the very spirit of Shelforce and the operational excellence we strive for,” said Howard Trotter, Business Manager at Shelforce.“ His dedication, reliability, and attitude inspire everyone who works with him. He’ s a true team player and has helped shape our success not just through his work, but through the example he sets every day.”
Paul’ s contribution has been instrumental in helping Shelforce achieve record growth. His influence extends far beyond his technical role— he is a shining example of what can be achieved through determination and belief in oneself.
“ He’ s never let his disability define him,” added Howard.“ Paul proves that excellence comes in many forms, and we are delighted he has been nominated as an unsung hero.”
www. shelforce. com
10 NOVEMBER 2025 CLEARVIEW-UK. COM