There have been significant developments and important milestones during the last five years in all areas; additional disciplines, registrations, completions, funding, action plans and marketing.I was appointed Head of ACE just over 12 months ago and would like to provide an update on progress during 2008 and outline plans for 2009.

2008 was an extremely challenging year for ACE, since the funding that had been available via the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) ended on 31st December 2007. There followed a period of uncertainty in how ACE was to be funded. The only funding that was available for ACE throughout 2008 was Train to Gain (England), DCELLS (Wales) and Scottish Enterprise (Scotland). There was, however considerable confusion around employer contributions and eligibility for these funds which resulted in lower numbers of new ACE registrations than expected.

On a more positive note, it was a fantastic achievement that the momentum of the ACE initiative was maintained during this difficult time. There were actually several positive developments for ACE during 2008 including:

• 1100 new ACE Registrations
• A new ACE website
• New assessment centres
• Excellent new promotional materials
• Affiliation of the ACE card with CSCS
• Implementation of assessment centre charges

The outlook for 2009 looks extremely promising for ACE. The barriers to funding have now been removed and large numbers of new ACE registrations are expected to follow. The graph opposite shows the progress that has already been made.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everybody – the Industry Steering Group, Clients, Contractors, Unions and Employees for their support in moving ACE forward. By working together we can ensure that we have a proven competent workforce which will raise the market position of the UK Engineering Construction industry.

• ACE Newsletter 2009