April has been a much more positive month overall. After the break-in in March and all the frustration that came with it, it was good to finally have a month without any major drama... Although the police have now officially closed the case relating to the burglary, which was disappointing but not unexpected.
The 'day job' has continued to be busy, with a lot of development work, business support, and assessment activity keeping me occupied during the week. That has meant the centre work has still largely been evenings and weekends, but progress is definitely being made.
One of the biggest milestones this month has been getting the electrics completed in the classroom. It’s one of those jobs that suddenly makes the place feel usable rather than theoretical. The office has also now been plastered, although there’s still a ceiling to install and plenty of painting left to do before it’s finished properly.
I also had a great catch-up with friend and former colleague Steve Muscroft, who now works at NOCN. Steve came over to offer some excellent advice around retrofit qualifications and wider opportunities in the sector. It was a really positive conversation and a reminder of how supportive people in the industry can be when you’re trying to build something worthwhile.
Another important date is now in the diary, with approval activity booked in for 1 May. It feels like another significant step forward and one that hopefully brings the centre closer to finally opening its doors properly.
I had a bit of an away day, going down to the NEC in Birmingham for the Fire Safety and Security Events, where I caught up with Dan Woods, who was as insightful as ever and very briefly caught up with Trevor Jenks - One of many of the FESS industry good guys'.
Away from ProTech, I’m also awaiting the outcome of nominations and voting as I seek to extend my voluntary role as a governor on the The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust Council of Governors. It’s a role I’ve really valued being part of, and one I’d be proud to continue supporting.
One of the smaller jobs this month has probably become one of my favourites. I’ve sorted out some seating for a communal area within the centre. The idea behind it is simple — I want installers and learners to feel comfortable dropping in, even when they’re not attending a course. Somewhere to have a brew, talk shop, share ideas, and spend time around other people in the industry.
And that’s probably the biggest takeaway from April.
It really feels like a centre now.