RICS has urged firms to do more to develop training-based employment opportunities to close the skills gap…
The construction industry is facing a lack of skilled workers that could impact the sectors ability to deliver projects. In Yorkshire, firms are being urged to develop more programmes aimed at training people on the job in a bid to tackle the growing skills shortage.
The assertion came from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), who said more needs to be done if the sector is to fill the 190,000 construction jobs that are estimated to be created by the end of 2018.
Speaking to the Telegraph & Argus RICS regional director Victoria Hampson said: “We have to make it easier for young people to find an appropriate route into the industry, whether that is through apprenticeships or degree-level qualifications.
“Our research shows that if the skills epidemic doesn’t improve in the next three years, 27,000 planned buildings are at risk of not being built.
“If we’re to overcome this, we need to reduce the dropout rate from apprenticeships and other training courses by better linking them to the nature of the jobs that are likely to be available, along with relevant qualifications.”
A range of Trailblazer apprenticeship are being developed by RICS, working alongside firms such as BAM Construct, CBRE, Carillion, DTZ and Balfour Beatty. This will see apprentices gain vocational and academic qualifications.
“The construction industry looks set to grow over the next five years, but it’s very unlikely that we’ll have the capacity or the capability to fulfil planned projects,” Hampson said.
“We are now calling for employers in the sector to support our work in bringing through the next generation of construction talent.”
Connexions Bradford is holding drop-in sessions to help local students in the area plan their future career. The first session will be held at Culture Fusion, Thornton Road on 25 August from 1pm followed by one at Keighley Connexions Centre on 26 August from 11am.
Connexions Bradford’s prospects manager Liz Hemsley said: “Young people around the country are now making decisions that will have an impact for the rest of their lives.
“If you are aged 16 or 17 and need help making a decision about where to study or train Connexions Bradford can help.
“Expert personal advisers are here to provide support and impartial advice to help you make the best decision for your future.”
