The construction industry has always played a vital role in driving economic growth, covering a range of disciplines such as architecture, civil engineering, and construction management. In the United Kingdom, this sector provides employment for around 2.15 million individuals. 

However, companies and specialised recruitment agencies are facing challenges in sourcing skilled workers due to a shrinking pool of talent, in order to keep up with the increasing demand. This skills shortage presents a considerable threat to the industry's ability to recover and progress in the future.

The UK Trade Skills Index 2023 has revealed a pressing need for 937,000 fresh faces in the construction and trades sector within the next ten years. Scotland alone needs 31,000 skilled workers. Out of those recruits, 244,000 should ideally be qualified apprentices.

The construction industry has been hit hard by the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the urgency to bridge the skills gap has become more apparent. According to the Construction Skills Network (CSN) report, the industry will require an additional 225,000 workers by 2027. This growing skills gap is not only a concern for the industry but also poses a threat to the UK economy, with worries about output on the rise.

Reasons Behind the Skills Gap

Several factors have led to the widening skills gap in the construction sector. One major issue is the decrease in the number of apprentices entering the industry. In 2021, the lowest number of apprentices since 2010 were registered, with many failing to complete their training. This lack of interest among young people in pursuing construction careers is a concerning trend, as only a small percentage of students consider working in this sector.

Another challenge is the aging workforce within construction. With over 35% of workers aged over 50, the industry is facing a potential shortage of experienced workers in the coming years. It is crucial to attract new talent to replace these older workers as they retire.

Furthermore, while increased investment in construction projects is positive for the industry, it also contributes to the skills gap. Government initiatives and infrastructure projects have created a surge in demand for skilled workers, with billions of pounds worth of projects planned for the next five years. This increased demand, combined with the existing skills shortage, emphasizes the need to address the skills gap urgently.

Impacts of the Talent Deficit

The construction industry is facing a significant shortage of skilled workers, which is having wide-ranging effects on the economy, employment, and the timely completion of projects. This shortage poses a threat to the industry's post-pandemic growth and recovery, as well as the delivery of crucial infrastructure projects and affordable housing initiatives. The lack of skilled workers is impacting the successful execution of construction projects.

With a limited number of qualified professionals available, construction firms may find it challenging to meet project deadlines and deliver projects at the expected level of quality. This can result in project delays, exceeding budget limits, and a decline in client satisfaction.

Moreover, the skills shortage is placing added strain on existing workers, who may be required to work longer hours to make up for the manpower shortfall. This situation increases the risk of worker fatigue and undermines safety protocols at construction sites.

Closing the Gap in Skills

To address the skills gap and fulfil the need for skilled workers in sustainable construction practices, it is crucial to implement various strategies.

Attracting and Educating New Generation Employees

A key strategy to drive growth in the construction industry is to actively recruit and train young professionals, such as recent graduates and individuals with further or higher education backgrounds. Creating strong partnerships between educational institutions and the construction sector is crucial to equip new candidates with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field. These partnerships can involve apprenticeship schemes, internships, and targeted outreach efforts to showcase the diverse career opportunities within the construction industry.

Apprenticeship programs play a vital role in attracting fresh talent and preparing them for successful careers in construction. It is essential for both the Scottish and UK construction industries to continue investing in these programs in order to cultivate a skilled workforce for the future.

Leveraging Transferable Skills

Construction companies and recruiters have the opportunity to attract talented workers from various sectors within the industry or from other neighbouring professions, reallocating the existing workforce to meet immediate project needs. A multitude of transferable skills exist that transcend different specialties and can provide construction projects with a larger pool of skilled individuals to choose from.

Regarding hard skills, these include physical strength, dexterity, hand-eye coordination, as well as expertise in bricklaying, masonry, carpentry, framing, plumbing, electrical work, drywall installation, roofing, sheet metal work, demolition, HVAC systems, inspection, painting, repairs, measurement, installation, maintenance, power tool operation, renovations, surveying, ironwork, and mathematics.

Technical skills encompass knowledge of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, the Uniform Building Code (UBC), and Hazardous Materials Management (HAZMAT) protocols; proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite; as well as training on a variety of heavy machinery.

Soft skills crucial for success in construction roles include teamwork, collaboration, active listening, a willingness to learn, problem-solving abilities, decision-making skills, effective communication, and organizational proficiency.

Certifications and training play a significant role in enhancing the capabilities of skilled workers. Many individuals possess certifications that are applicable across disciplines, such as licenses for operating heavy equipment, health and safety training, or engineering qualifications. Additionally, there is the option to retrain workers from related sectors, leveraging their existing knowledge and skills to better prepare them for construction-related positions.

Retraining workers

It is essential to retain experienced workers to overcome workforce challenges. Businesses need to offer appealing career advancement opportunities, competitive pay, and a positive work environment to keep skilled staff members. This involves prioritising ongoing professional growth and training opportunities to keep employees interested and driven.

The construction sector needs to tackle the skills shortage to boost productivity and secure its future success. By concentrating on recruiting and developing young talent, retaining experienced workers, and tapping into broader talent pools with relevant skill sets, the industry can close the skills gap and meet the need for sustainable construction methods.

Next Steps

The demand for highly skilled professionals in the construction industry remains consistently high. Companies are seeking talented individuals to innovate, design, and build the future of the sector.

Metis Recruitment’s specialist team is able to find top RCI professionals with leading companies in construction specifically the Building Envelope Sector. With years of expertise in recruitment, we can assist you in swiftly hiring employees.

Call us on 01522 424145 or click here, to speak to one of the team about how we can help you today.

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