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Artisan, Craftsman, Technician - Knowledge Allows Progress: February 2002 The ancient plumber was indeed an artisan who used only simple hand tools, he carried his livelihood in his bare hands, few building products were available 'off the shelf', so he crafted them mainly using lead. A newly trained apprentice of yesteryear was usually required to travel the country for several years to acquire varied knowledge from other master craftsmen, and to broaden his experience of the work; hence the term 'journeyman plumber'. Today's modern plumber has a longer journey; a true professional should embrace CPD (continued professional development). That means topping-up and seeking new knowledge throughout an entire career. One way of attaining CPD is to participate in distance learning courses, which allow self-study. When Marley launched Equator, the push-fit hot and cold water system, almost three years ago, it was decided to fully support professional plumbers by providing a distance learning course. Although product handling experience is useful, we don't pretend that any special practical skill is needed, because push-fit is the simplest jointing method known. Therefore the course is designed to impart product awareness, which will enable installers, designers, and specialist merchant advisers to correctly identify installation opportunities, and benefits. The Equator distance learning booklet is freely available, and the assessment fee is just £4.50. Assessment is undertaken by submitting a multiple choice style question paper to Mid Kent College, which ensures third party recognition, and a certificate is subsequently issued on achieving a satisfactory level of attainment. If we could reincarnate a Victorian plumber, and show him some copper joints being soldered on site, he would probably remark that: 'It's not proper plumbing, as I used to do'. Yet the technicalities of the installation would frighten him. The professional plumber of today is more of a technician than a craftsman, he must understand new regulations, standards, boiler controls, and typically has to cope with gas assessment as well. Modern products like Equator simplify installation, allowing the plumber to focus his attention on the more important technical aspects of the job. If you would like to participate in the Equator distance learning course, simply telephone our literature hotline on 0800 0281 876, we will pay for the call! Local CPD presentations to professional groups are also freely available, using large screen video technology, presentations have already been given to many branches of the Institute of Plumbing throughout the UK. If you would like to discuss a group CPD style presentation, then please contact me at Marley Plumbing & Drainage, Tel: 01622 852694. Fax: 01622 858041, or email whorlowb@marleyext.com. By Brian Whorlow IEng FIOP RP Business Training Manager, Marley Plumbing and Drainage |
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New Sales and Marketing Director Artisan, Craftsman, Technician Lord and Lady's Hall Undergoes A Princely Transformation: October 2001
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