The Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) has appointed a new training and safety manager.

Rob Squires, formerly training manager of the National Demolition Group, has previously worked for the Armed Forces and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) where he oversaw the staffing and delivery mechanisms for all construction-based card schemes, including CPCS (Construction Plant Competence Scheme).

In his new role Rob will undertake key responsibilities including supporting all of the CPA Special Interest Groups and CPA’s Training on Plant in Construction Group (TOPIC). Rob will also work closely with the CITB and other organisations to ensure the training requirements of CPA members are being met and ensure grant aid continues to be available.

CPA chief executive Colin Wood said, “I’ve known Rob for a number of years and I’m very pleased to welcome him to our CPA team and know that he will make a great contribution to the work of the Association and to the plant sector in general.”

CPA director Kevin Minton said, “Rob’s background in training delivery and management will be of great benefit to the Association and with the advent of the CSCS-badged card initiative which is affecting many of the CPA members, Rob’s knowledge of card scheme requirements and his contacts with CITB and CSCS will allow us to thoroughly support the membership on these issues.”

Rob Squires added, “I’m very pleased to join the CPA and look forward to making a valuable contribution to the Association and supporting the Members in navigating the sometimes complex issues of carding, funding, qualification and training delivery requirements.”