Welcome to Wood/Work

A dedicated, nationwide initiative supporting both employers and‬ new entrants in the wood trades.‬

‭ Whether you’re a business looking to retain skilled workers or an employee starting your‬ career, we provide the guidance, resources, and community to help you succeed.‬

‭Through free membership, mentoring, training, and in-work support, we bridge the gap‬ between new employees and employers, creating a stronger, more sustainable future for our‬‭ industry.‬

‭ Join us in shaping the next generation of woodworkers.‬ ‭‭

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About Us

Wood/Work

At Wood/Work, we’re committed to ensuring that new entrants to the wood trades not only‬ start strong but stay and thrive in their careers. Formed as a joint initiative between the‬ Institute of Carpenters (IOC) and the National Association of Shopfitters (NAS), we bring‬ together decades of industry expertise to support both employees and employers in building‬ a more sustainable workforce.‬ ‭

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A selection of artisan tools and handmade crafts displayed on a white desk, perfect for creative projects.
A weathered hammer surrounded by bent nails on a wooden plank, capturing the essence of carpentry work.
A person skillfully using a drill press to craft a wooden piece in a workshop setting.

Our Ideas

How We Came About‬

The construction industry faces a significant challenge - many new workers leave within their‭ first year of employment. This is especially true in the wood trades, where an aging‬‭ workforce and high turnover rates threaten the future of the sector. Recognising this, the IOC‬‭ and the NAS joined forces to create a solution: a dedicated support programme designed to‬‭ help employees stay in the industry and help employers retain skilled talent.‬

We have noticed this academic year that more of our young apprentices are in need of additional ‘life’ support as distinct from ‘employment’ support. We have had more apprentices struggle to stay in their employment, often due to the background issues in their lives rather than their ability to learn or master the standards.
Head of Bench Joinery

Our Mission is Simple

To reduce early attrition in the wood trades and help build a stronger,‬‭ more sustainable workforce.

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We achieve this through

teaching, school, education, teaching, teaching, teaching, teaching, teaching
Early career guidance

Providing realistic insights and resources to help new‬‭ entrants set clear expectations.‬

Close-up of various woodworking tools in a workshop, featuring wood shavings and equipment.
In-Work Support Programme

Offering free mentoring,‬‭ training, and career‬ development to help employees succeed.

Three men discussing work in a woodworking shop with CNC machinery in focus.
Employer Collaboration

Sharing research and best‬‭ practices to help businesses‬‭ create supportive work environments.

Close-up of a hand signing a legal document with a fountain pen, symbolizing signature and agreement.
Policy & influence‬

Advocating for industry-wide‬‭ changes to improve retention and‬‭ career progression.‬ ‭

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