The entire roofing and cladding supply chain has been invited by the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) to join an AI-powered Skills Forum on Thursday, 25 September, from 2pm to 3pm.

The event is delivered in partnership with the Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing Association (LRWA), the Single Ply Roofing Association (SPRA), the Mastic Asphalt Council (MAC), the Rooflight Association (RA), and the Green Roof Organisation (GRO). It is open to anyone involved in recruitment, retention, and training, including business owners, manufacturers, subcontractors, apprentices, training providers, and colleges.

Using Natter, an AI conversational intelligence platform, participants will be able to share challenges anonymously, exchange ideas, and help develop a practical Action Plan Template. This template will provide guidance for workforce growth and support roofing and cladding companies considering taking on new recruits.

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"Recruitment is one of the most pressing challenges across the roofing and cladding industry. This forum offers a safe space to openly share experiences and frustrations, while building solutions together," said Gray Gibson, NFRC Policy Officer. "By harnessing AI technology, we can anonymously capture honest perspectives, identify common barrier trends, and drive collaboration to support both businesses and new entrants to our industry."

The insights gained will be shared with all participants and used to strengthen cross-industry connections, providing a foundation for long-term cooperation on skills. NFRC has signalled its openness to working with other trade associations and industry bodies to widen the conversation and ensure solutions are industry-wide. 

James Talman, NFRC Group CEO, commented: "Our industry's future depends on its people. By bringing the supply chain together in one forum, supported by advanced AI tools, we can better understand the real issues businesses are facing and co-create strategies to overcome them. Collaboration is key, no single organisation will solve the workforce crisis alone."

The NFRC Skills Forum will take place online and is free to attend. Participants will be able to contribute from anywhere using a computer (preferable) or mobile device, with no downloads or software required. 

Those interested are invited to register here.