As the Founder and Managing Director of The Vehicle Wrapping Company Limited, Linda Edwards is an award-winning businesswoman who has served the UK’s signage industry for over 25 years. She has been a Board Director of the BSGA for seven years and plays a key role within the Training and Education committee alongside the chair, Jeff Bufton.
Recognised by The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education as an influential industry leader, Linda is instrumental in driving academic and vocational professional development within the Signage Industry.
She is part of an independent group that developed, launched, and provides oversight of the occupational standards for the Level Three Technical Apprentice certification, the industry’s only formal apprenticeship qualification in the UK. As one of the first Independent End Point Assessors for this certification, Linda ensures apprentices across the UK meet the industry’s exacting standards under the guidelines set by SIAS.
Linda tells us more about the Training and Education Committee.
The committee is focused on bench marking industry standards and developing and recognising a skilled workforce in an unregulated sector. It is focused on resolving the distinct lack of formally recognised accreditations and qualifications.
Key objectives include establishing industry-recognised certifications, fostering training partnerships through collaboration with educational institutions and industry stakeholders, and creating structured and accessible Continuous Professional Development (CPD) pathways for all involved. The committee prioritises communication and collaboration to establish essential standards, guidelines, and best practices while addressing emerging trends and technologies to lower barriers to entry.
We believe this is a fundamental issue affecting our industry, and the BSGA is committed to addressing it by means of, introducing new individuals to our industry, equipping all individuals with the necessary skills, tools, and resources to unify the industry, and ensuring skills are maintained and fit for purpose, which is essential to the industry’s current and long-term health.
The committee fulfils a crucial role in positioning the Signage Industry as an appealing career choice for future generations, driving innovation, and nurturing a strong community within the sector.
Through the BSGA Bulletin, we will update you with the latest developments and initiatives each month.
European Sign Federation