Kier‘s training and career initiative set out to provide greater opportunities within the construction sector and to close the skills gap
Over the past 12 months through their training and career initiative, Kier has helped 45 individuals into full time employment, organised work experience placements for 56 young people, taken on 42 apprentices across five projects in the area and Kier colleagues have volunteered almost 1,400 hours working in the community.
The company looked to offer a unique initiative to tackle the skills shortage facing the construction industry.
In addition, the company launched an Education and Engagement Programme and held a skills networking event in Swansea.
Over 40 partners attending the event including; the Construction Wales Innovation Centre, the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, the Civil Engineering Contractors Association and the Chartered Institute of Building.
Craig Archard, 25 from Swansea benefited from the skills programme. He moved to Swansea after serving in the Royal Marines and started working with the company in July 2017 on the S4C development. Since joining Kier, Craig has completed an NVQ Level 4 qualification and was also nominated for ‘apprentice of the year – technical’ in the G4C Wales Awards.
Commenting on his experience, Craig said: “Being one of the largest construction companies in South Wales, I have seen what it takes to run large sites.
“Specifically, I have enjoyed being part of a team, problem solving and creating a building that will be part of the community for years to come. It is definitely the career I have been looking for and would recommend Kier to anyone thinking of going into the industry.”
Celebrating the success of the skills initiative, Jason Taylor, operations director for Kier Construction Wales, said: “Working collaboratively with organisations such as Careers Wales, The Prince’s Trust and CITB, our skills initiative has been a real success, with many people who’ve taken part in work experience or apprenticeships and going on to secure full-time employment.
“Others have also learnt how interesting a career within the built environment is – which is key to dealing with the skills shortage our industry currently faces.
“Since launching our office in Swansea in 2016, we have worked hard to build relationships with local communities across the region and we are committed to leaving a lasting legacy in South Wales.”
Kier is working on a number of high-profile projects in the area, including the Swansea Innovation Quarter SA1, Yr Egin a creative and digital hub and a new home for S4C in Carmarthen.
