Stuart Hopkins, the Ladder Association’s Training Manager, retires after eight year’s distinguished service. In what was a newly created post back in 2008, he has overseen the growth of a national network of approved training centres that now issues thousands of LadderCards every year.
Working with and supporting the Association’s Training Committee, he has been instrumental in helping to develop a training portfolio which now includes three industry standard courses: Ladders and Stepladders; Ladders and Stepladders Inspection; and Working with Steps and Step Stools, (developed specifically for the retail, commercial, hospitality and healthcare sectors).
Before joining the Ladder Association, Stuart Hopkins was group senior instructor at HSS, having previously held various positions including Branch Manager, Area Manager and National Training Manager for the specialist lifting division.
He holds the certificate in training practice from the Chartered Institute of Personnel Development, the RoSPA safety instructor’s certificate and was chair of the IPAF training committee, 2004-2005.
“Thanks to the work of the Association, the last few years have seen a major shift in attitude towards the need for professional ladder training,” says Stuart. “More and more companies and individuals are recognising the benefits, and the fact that competency and safety cannot be left simply to learning on the job. The message is finally hitting home.”
“In bringing about this quiet revolution I must acknowledge the work of the many Ladder Association members who have contributed their knowledge and expertise, over many years, to the training committee.”
Comments the Association’s Executive Director, Peter Bennett: “Stuart has had a major input to the progress and development of the Ladder Association. His training role has been central to its success.”
“We will all miss Stuart’s enthusiasm, humour and expertise. I would like to thank him for his commitment and dedication to the work of the Association, its members, Council and committees over many years.”
