The construction industry is currently facing yet another skills shortage.
The Federation of Master Builders said that its latest poll of SME construction firms found employment picked up for the 6th quarter running and the growth was expected to continue over the coming three months, accompanied by rising pay for construction workers. But repeating concerns from other construction-sector reports, about half of the 400 or so companies surveyed said they were struggling to recruit the right staff. Brian Berry, the trade association's chief executive, said a skills shortage continued "to loom large over our industry".
With this in mind Green PM has offered a work experience placement to a post 16 Construction student; Jack Simpson. Jack is currently in his final year studying the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment., Based on his work so far Jack has said that he has found the work placement opportunity 'so rewarding' and feels that the placement has been invaluable in helping him apply the knowledge and skills obtained during his studies in a real work environment.
Jack is studying at Stoke Studio College which opened in September 2012 as a brand new concept in education and the first of its type in the area with state of the art facilities, specialising in Construction and Engineering training for 14-19 year olds. The College is looking for other businesses like Green Project Management Ltd to provide students with a genuine experience of the working environment and prepare them for moving into permanent employment or apprenticeships. They also have a scheme available whereby they are able to pay students for their time working with your company.
If like us you're concerned about the future of our industry then why not do something positive about it? If you'd like a 'Jack' or a 'Jill' for your organisation or if you are able to support the Studio College with a placement or even just an employer visit/talk to students then please do as we did and contact Zoe Simpson* and start to make your contribution to the future of the industry.
*Zoe Simpson (Lead Personal Coach) 01782 603171 email: zsimp1ssc@stokestudiocollege.co.uk
