UP to 35 new civil engineering apprentices will end up in paid work this year after the first apprenticeship scheme of its kind in Northern Ireland delivered by Work+.
Offered by 22 employers including the likes of Lagan Construction Group, Farrans and Graham Construction, the scheme enables apprentices to earn as they learn from the age of 16, gain invaluable industry experience and provide a direct progression pathway to higher levels of professional and technical work.
"There is high demand for civil engineering skills, and over the next decade Northern Ireland is going to need a lot more people who can deliver the infrastructure which supports our economy, our communities and our quality of life,” according to Richard Kirk, regional director for the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE).
Now in its third year, Work+ aims to address the shortage described by the Skills Barometer Report, which identified civil engineering as the sector with the second highest demand for workers over the next decade.
The scheme is a partnership between ICE, the Department for the Economy, employers, all six of Northern Ireland’s FE colleges, and Ulster University.
Apprentices attend college or university on a day release basis while working full-time for their employer.
Richard added: “Apprenticeships keep our economy competitive by upskilling our population and getting the right people into the right sectors – the scheme benefits apprentices, employers and wider industry.
"We encourage anyone interested in STEM to apply, as you will be able to earn from your first day, gain professional qualifications and take your first step into a rewarding career.”
Among the other employers participating in Work+ are Translink, Belfast Harbour, O’Hare & McGovern, WDR & RT Taggart, Amey, FP McCann and
Geda Construction.
