Gilbert and Goode invited a group of students from Bodmin College to its St Tudy site as part of an initiative to encourage young people into the building industry
The students tried their hand at bricklaying and experienced a virtual reality workshop on architectural design, giving them an insight into how modern technological advances are helping to revolutionise the construction industry.
Gilbert & Goode’s safety advisor, John Hutchens said: “Attracting talented young people into construction is one of the biggest challenges the industry is currently facing.
“Initiatives like this are a great example of how industry professionals can come together, challenge misconceptions, and raise awareness of the many and varied career opportunities available in construction.
“Real-life experience is the best way to engage a generation of future workers, and inspire them to take the next step in accessing the right training and qualifications.”
The multi-billion pound construction industry in the UK is currently facing a major skills shortage.
There is large demand for both trade and professional roles – from bricklayers, plasterers and electricians to quantity surveyors and architectural technicians – far outstripping supply.
Paula Hutchens, from Cornwall Construction Training Group organised the event for the students.
She said: “It’s imperative all students are given an insight into the wealth of careers within the construction industry, to allow them to see first hand the wider picture of a construction site from inception to completion.
“We’re grateful to Gilbert & Goode for allowing us to use the site at St Tudy, and we are already planning future activities with them.”
