Candidates who have received ECS Gold cards after completing their BEMS Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA) course have praised the programme for its “flexibility” and the “genuinely supportive” guidance they received from the Group Horizon team.

The EWA programme – developed in in collaboration with the Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) – assesses and validates the skills and knowledge of workers who did not have the opportunity to undertake an apprenticeship or regulated training route but have gained significant experience in the Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) field. It offers a much needed, highly efficient and cost effective way of assessing skilled professionals to the same nationally recognised standard as those completing a BEMS apprenticeship, without the need for them to return to college. Importantly, it also enables experienced professionals in the building controls sector to obtain an ECS Gold card. Candidates received an EWA card while they undertake the programme, which allows them to continue working, with a total of 50 EWA cards issued so far, and five candidates have now successfully passed and received their ECS Gold cards.

Bradley Wilmoth of Eon Control Solutions has recommended the programme after what he described as a “relaxed” and “stress free” assessment. He said: “I completed the Experienced Worker Assessment to obtain my Gold card through Group Horizon. From the initial trial onward, both Group Horizon and Alison were extremely supportive, quickly resolving any issues and guiding me through every stage of the process. Ian carried out my final assessment, which he made feel relaxed and completely stress-free.”

He added: “I’d highly recommend this route to anyone who hasn’t followed the traditional pathway through college electrical training, apprenticeships, or the BCIA Trailblazer. The online portal used for uploading assessments, receiving feedback, and accessing guidance is well organised and keeps everything in one place, making it easy to stay on top of the requirements.”

Dale Drake of Drake Controls said: “I have been trying for years to secure one of these, so it’s fantastic that this pathway now exists for experienced engineers who didn’t come through the traditional route to achieve a Gold card. I will be sure to update the forums I am a part of on this pathway.”

Describing his experience, Dale commented: “Overall, I found the process to be fairly smooth. One aspect I particularly appreciated was the flexibility. Being able to upload evidence in my own time, and not being penalised for taking a break between assignments, made the experience much more manageable alongside day-to-day work commitments.

“I also really enjoyed the interview. The team were friendly, professional and easy to talk to. As a small company, we tend to operate somewhat in isolation with limited interaction with other BEMS engineers, so I value opportunities to connect and have technical discussions with peers in the industry.”

Asanka Kangangie of Mitie Energy believes the EWA programme offered something “truly valuable” and feels his Gold card marks a milestone in his career. He said: “The programme encouraged me to look beyond titles and instead focus on the impact I’ve made and the values that guide me. Receiving the Gold card is a personal milestone in my professional career.”

He concluded: “The EWA programme offers something truly valuable: a space for professionals to reflect, recalibrate and be celebrated for who they are and what they bring to their profession. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking to reconnect with their purpose and take ownership of their narrative.”

Group Horizon Director Peter Behan commented: “The feedback we’ve had from the first few people to pass their EWA assessment shows the value of the programme to the BEMS sector. We are delighted to have been able to create this opportunity for experienced tradespeople to have their skills formally recognised in what is fast becoming a vibrant and competitive industry.”