Construction employers must rethink the narrative around a ‘skills shortage’ and instead focus on stronger collaboration with training providers, according to South & City College, Birmingham (SCCB).
The college has highlighted a lack of employer engagement that prevents learners from gaining the hands-on experience needed to enter the workforce.
SCCB has reported that its workshops and classrooms are full of young people keen to develop technical construction skills across a range of trades. However, it said that too few employers are offering placements, apprenticeships or onsite experience.
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Rebecca Waterfield, head of employer engagement at SCCB, said: “Without employers stepping forward, these learners can’t complete their studies or gain the real-world experience industry demands.
“Ambitious construction targets placed on the sector by the current government make it understandable that construction employers feel under pressure, but referencing a ‘skills gap’ simply doesn’t cut it and we need to collaborate to shift the construction skills narrative.”
Waterfield added that this is not about blaming employers. “We know they’re facing increased employee taxation and other costs, red tape and administrative burdens – this is about joint planning, so that the sector avoids being unprepared for workforce retirements or opportunities to scale up in the coming years.”
SCCB is urging construction firms of all sizes to engage with local training providers about placements, apprenticeships and workforce development needs.
“Birmingham is at a crossroads. We have enthusiastic learners, fantastic facilities and dedicated lecturers,” Waterfield said.
“What we need now is more employers who are willing to connect with us. With the right support, we can turn opportunity into long-term economic strength – and put the ‘skills gap’ narrative firmly behind us.”
