2026 ECIA Conference – NAECI – Framework of Choice
Join us
Join us at the 2026 ECIA Conference for a landmark exploration of NAECI and its vital role in shaping the future of our sector. This year’s programme brings together special guests, industry leaders and influential voices to unravel NAECI’s history, its enduring importance and its impact on the engineering construction landscape.
Attendees will delve into forward‑looking discussions on skills development, the evolution of site‑specific contracts that strengthen industrial relations and communication between clients and employers, and the essential role of inclusivity in attracting more women into the industry.
With additional insights into employment law and the changing needs of our workforce, this is a fantastic opportunity for you to deepen your understanding of NAECI and contribute to shaping its next chapter.
The programme contains buffet lunch and dinner. Let us know if you require support with accommodations or have any additional needs.
We look forward to welcoming you to our key 2026 event.
Programme
10:00-10:30 Coffee and networking
10:30-10:40 Opening statement
10:40 – 11:10 History of the ECIA & NAECI
Born out of major industrial relations changes in 1981, NAECI was created as a sector‑wide framework to stabilise employment relations in a complex, mobile and highly skilled industry. The ECIA soon followed to administer the Agreement for ECI employers, and we will briefly examine NAECI’s significance and the ECIA’s ongoing endorsement of it. Speakers: Jeremy Goodchild & Mike Hughes, ECIA Regional Relations Managers.
11:10 – 11:50 IR Landscape & Developments
Following a period of industrial unrest, we will introduce an interactive timeline illustrating how the ECIA team used NAECI practices on sites to rebuild trust and re-establish positive industrial relations. Guest Speakers: Dave Keville, Head of Engagement, Sellafield. Jenny Jones, Head of Procurement and Supply Chain Management, EET Fuels.
11:50 – 12:40 Skills Delivery
Building on the successes of the Tees Valley Regional Skills Consortium, we will explore how this local apprenticeship, scholarship and upskilling pathway can be scaled to strengthen NAECI skills delivery at a national level. Guest Speaker: Neil Armstrong, Competence Consultant, International Assessment Centre.
12:40 – 13:20 Lunch
13:30 – 14:30 Employment Law Update
As the Employment Rights Act 2026 comes into force, an industry expert, Amanda Chadwick (CIPD/Corner Solicitors), will guide us through the key changes and explore how they impact the current National Agreement. Guest Speaker: Amanda Chadwick, Employment Law Specialist, Amanda Chadwick Ltd
14:20 – 15:10 Women in Engineering & Construction
As the sector continues to navigate skills shortages, we will hear from female industry leaders as we explore how to build a more inclusive NAECI framework that supports a broader, more diverse workforce. Guest Speakers: Laura Bowes, Director of People & Development, KAEFER UK & Ireland. Trudy Harrison, ,
15:10 – 15:30 Coffee & Tea
15:40 – 16:15 Strengthening Client–Contractor Relationships in the UK Chemical Industry
16:15 – 16:45 ECIA Strategy
What does the future of the ECIA look like? Join our team as we unveil our new three-year strategy and outline the direction that will shape the association’s next chapter.
Programme content may change, subject to speakers’ availability.
Registration:
#ECIAConference2026