t r a i n i n g
TRAINING FAST-TRACKS PROFITS AND QUALITY afti
Australian Fenestration Training Institute
Australia’ s top specialist window industry training is designed to fast track profitability, quality and compliance for window businesses around the country.
The AWA offers Australia’ s leading window industry training through a comprehensive range of immediately accessible online modules as well as face-to-face courses run by its education arm, the Australian Fenestration Training Institute( AFTI).
AWA National Training Manager, Jann O’ Connor, says the AFTI courses, designed to advance the knowledge and skills of window industry personnel, are proven to develop profitability, quality and compliance.
“ We have an exceptional range of specialised window training that is very different to what is available through other training organisations,” says Jann.“ Our training is entirely industry focused and is specifically designed to develop window manufacturers and their employees.
“ To thrive and succeed in today’ s competitive market you and your team need in-depth and up to the minute industry knowledge.”
All AFTI courses are regularly reviewed and updated immediately to reflect all regulation and standard changes.
“ Because we directly design and manage our training in-house, we can update courses on the same day that regulatory changes are released,” says Jann.“ This means our members always have access to the most up to date information.”
Around 650 people completed training courses during 2016, from the AFTI’ s most popular course, Window Induction, to specialist courses such as Restricted Openings for the Prevention of Falls.
Jann believes it is critical for window businesses to invest in training, not only to keep on top of compliance but also to discover innovations and new products.
“ Windows are not simple and the industry is subject to a lot of regulation through the National Construction Code and Standards. It is part of our job to make industry aware
For more information, contact Jann O’ Connor at training @ awa. org. au
of changes and their impact on the window industry,” says Jann.
Window Induction is AFTI’ s most popular course and is available online. Designed for people new to the industry, it covers window terminology and types, regulations, glass types, framing materials and acoustic and energy performance. Many AWA members automatically put new employees through this course within hours of the commencement of their employment.
Increasingly, more courses are offered online to optimise immediacy, flexibility and accessibility for participants. Members are embracing the online option- it’ s ideally suited to those with a busy work schedule or located in remote or regional areas.
While online courses usually have a single area focus, AFTI also offers face-to-face courses around the country. Jann says these courses have a broader scope and also give participants an opportunity to network.
AFTI launched a Diploma of Fenestration in 2016 to enable candidates to demonstrate their proficiency and depth of knowledge. The diploma is only open to people employed by AWA member organisations who have worked the equivalent of two years full-time in the window industry or have a relevant qualification. Candidates must complete 14 individual courses and then score at least 75 per cent in a final examination.
The first Diploma of Fenestration was awarded late last year and more people are close to completing their diplomas.
AFTI is also looking at developing an international Fenestration Masters program in partnership with the AWA’ s American sister organisation, the American Architectural Manufacturers Association.
Log onto the AWA website for further information. Click onto Events to find a current listing of all AFTI training courses available to the window industry.
Online courses on Wind Actions, Glass and Glazing and Installation are in development with more online courses being planned for release during 2017.
“
Since joining the AWA in 2005, we’ ve all attended AFTI training courses to ensure we have the latest industry information and understand changes to the Australian Standards and the NCC. The training courses are well organised and informative and give us peace of mind knowing that we are compliant and can avoid potentially costly errors. I highly recommend AFTI training to everyone in the industry.”
Craig Chidgey Director
Arch System Fabrication Pty Ltd New South Wales
“
To maintain our position in an increasingly competitive market, we invest heavily in professional development. AFTI deliver all of our specialist window and glass industry training – in sales, technical and commercial. They know and understand our business and deliver quality training using professional and knowledgeable presenters. Having a skilled and motivated workforce delivers a multitude of returns to our business.”
Peter denBoer Business Improvement Director
Jason Windows Western Australia
“
Bradnam’ s Windows and Doors has 40 years of success in the Australian window and door industry. One of the foundations of our success has been the knowledge base of our frontline people. The AWA, through AFTI, has been a fantastic training resource which we have called on over many years to help grow not only our company but also our people.”
Dave Robertson Marketing Manager
Bradnam’ s Windows & Doors Queensland
24 Australian Window Association