Supporting Tomorrow's Workforce
On Tuesday, May 22nd KLHer Diana McHugh volunteered with the Construction Youth Trust at the University Academy of Engineering South Bank. The Construction Youth Trust is a charity that helps youth to build better, skilled futures by giving them access to training, education and employment opportunities in the construction industry.
Recent studies show an ageing population in the construction industry with a lack of new skilled workers entering the UK construction industry. In 2015, construction consultant Mark Farmer calculated that the industry needed 700,000 new workers simply to replace those retiring or moving industries and a further 120,000 to deliver capacity growth in the sector. The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has predicted that a lack of skilled workers could impact 27,000 construction projects each year until 2019. Furthermore, experts are concerned the industry faces a “ticking time bomb” with Brexit-related uncertainties on the horizon.
With the impending skill shortage, it is imperative for leaders in the UK construction industry to support programmes that encourage young people to explore the sector, provide fundamental skill development and training.
Encouraging people into the construction industry through offering apprenticeships is one way companies can help close the skills gap and ease the pressure on the industry’s existing workforce.
At UAE South Bank, Diana participated in a mock interview to help the graduating students prepare for upcoming apprenticeship opportunities. The goal of this activity was to offer students interview practice and more importantly, to provide them with constructive feedback on their interview style, so they are as prepared as possible for their first interviews in the construction industry.
Diana met many bright and talented students, including a very driven student, Lexi, who is interested in becoming a mechanical engineer. This volunteering opportunity was not only beneficial for the students, but valuable for KLH to meet and support the future of the construction industry.
The Construction Youth Trust is an organisation that can facilitate meaningful encounters with industry experts to build cross-industry partnerships with schools, colleges and universities. It aims to challenge stereotypes, champion careers and support students to achieve their career ambitions.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Apprenticeships levy.
- Civil engineering soft and digital skills.
- Construction Industry Training Board CITB.
- Diversity in the construction industry.
- Eight ways to win the fight for talent in construction.
- Engineering in the 21st century.
- Interview with Carol Lynch, CYT.
- Modernise or die.
- National Infrastructure Plan for Skills.
- Protection for apprenticeships.
- Skills shortage.
- Skills shortage and Brexit.
- Skills shortages lead to wages rise.
- Student resources.
- Tackling the construction skills shortage.
Featured articles and news
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).