BRIDGING THE SKILLS SHORTAGE IN CONSTRUCTION
Chris Haughey, Founder and Managing Director, McCoy Contractors
The construction sector’s ever-widening skills shortage is well documented and is a key constraint to a UK industry that provides the country with the homes, buildings and infrastructure that we desperately need. With construction output continuing to grow, how can the construction industry put in place measures that might put an end to the skills’ crisis?
According to the latest Construction Skills Network (CSN) report, around 251,000 new construction workers are needed by 2028 to fill the demand. The reasons for the skills shortage are varied but one of the main causes is the ageing workforce downing tools and retiring from the industry and not being replaced by a new younger generation. This is down to a recruitment and image problem with many young people not seeing the construction sector as an attractive and viable option.
Inspiring the next generation to take up a career in construction is fundamental to filling the skills gap over time. The construction sector is multi-faceted and incredibly diverse when it comes to the types of jobs on offer. We therefore need to teach young people that the construction industry is much more than just bricklaying. We need to engage with young people early in their education to show them that this is an exciting and constantly evolving industry that requires a huge range of skill sets.
Companies that can promote a career in construction to students from a young age will always be ahead of the skills game. Supporting young people through work experience and tasters, apprenticeships and providing funding to support the cost of training will be key to these new entrants. At McCoy Contractors, we have consistently demonstrated our commitment towards the creation of a skilled and sustainable workforce. It’s why we developed our apprenticeship scheme which has gone from strength-to-strength offering entrants each year first rate technical training and professional coaching on many specialist projects.
We currently employ a number of apprentices both on site and at our office in Knowle. These young recruits have an opportunity to gain a vocational qualification that stands them in good stead for their future, whilst at the same time being provided with a raft of training and developmental opportunities within an office environment and on site in the construction industry.
Our company ethos is to take talented and ambitious young people, and through our apprenticeship programme, guide and nurture them by providing access to valuable expertise and skills from experienced workers. This helps shape their careers, whilst supporting the growth and future success of the business.
In an industry plagued by skills shortages, there may not be an easy solution, but we are delighted to play our part in developing the construction workers of tomorrow. At McCoy Contractors, we understand the value of our people and are committed to helping our employees reach their full potential. As we continue to put people first, we look forward to an exciting future ahead.
If you are interested in learning more about employment opportunities or apprenticeships at McCoy Contractors contact amy.fullaway@mccoycontractors.co.uk
