New construction report reveals how to breathe new life into ageing industry

Constructing Excellence South West (CESW), a member led organisation covering the region, has launched a report exploring how to attract younger generations to a career in an ageing industry.

With almost half of employees in construction aged between 45 and 65, the Constructing the Future report outlines detailed recommendations to help evolve the industry to ensure it’s filled with new talent, skills, ideas and ways of working.

Designed to drive real change and combat the ongoing skills shortage, the report examines the current issues surrounding recruiting the next generation, and explores how to engage with and encourage school leavers to consider a career in construction and engineering.

The Generation for Change South West (G4CSW) is the sub-group of CESW responsible for implementing the recommendations listed in the Constructing the Future report. As the professional voice of young people in the UK built environment, G4CSW is committed to engage with the future leaders of the industry to show them the range of opportunities that lie ahead.

Andrew Carpenter, CEO of CESW, said: “Our latest report closely examines the existing issues surrounding the recruitment of the next generation of construction employees. It explores the attitudes and perceptions which influence career decisions and highlights the barriers which may be stopping younger people from applying for a career in construction and engineering.

“By reviewing the schemes already in place, G4CSW has developed a more effective, targeted and creative approach which is more likely to resonate with school leavers as they begin planning their futures.

“With an aging workforce, now is the time to make a real difference and provide an industry of opportunity for the next generation. Further action must be taken to recruit more young people into construction roles, and our list of recommendations highlight exactly how this can be done.”