Young contractors to benefit from new skills?

Young contractors in the construction industry could find that they are better placed to pitch for jobs in the future with the help of better training.

A recent report from CITB-ConstructionSkills, University Technical Colleges need to work harder to develop a relevant construction curriculum that has the backing of industry recognition.

Work experience and employer involvement are two of the main areas that need to be focused on by the training establishments, the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) stated.

Simon Nokes, REC chair of construction and joint managing director of Bespoke Recruitment, explained: “[The report] is a positive step forward and will ensure that 14 to 19-year-olds can sign up to technical courses that are properly targeted and deliver the skills we need. The key is ensuring that there is genuine employer input and buy-in.”

He added that despite the economic difficulties pressing on the UK, the construction industry can still tackle the potential skills shortages of the future by providing better training and preparation for young people to ensure that they have the best contractors and employees on hand when they time comes for work to pick up again.