One of the biggest challenges facing the construction sector is how to make our jobs appealing to the next generation. We know that young people are attracted by the lure of more high-tech, futuristic-looking jobs. It’s incumbent on us all to ensure that Northern Ireland’s construction and civil engineering sector has a pipeline of upcoming talent to keep it thriving well into future.
As the Next Generation sponsor at the Construction Employers Federation’s Northern Ireland construction gala dinner on March 27, Northstone is proud to support the development of young talent.
Our sponsorship will allow 30 students and apprentices to attend the 80th anniversary event alongside our industry leaders and decision-makers. We want to ensure that they have a place at the table and see themselves in the sector’s future.
Our commitment aligns with Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Week (February 3-7 ), reinforcing our belief that investing in people today ensures a stronger, more innovative industry tomorrow.
Through Northstone’s apprenticeship and graduate programmes, we recruit apprentices from the age of 17, offering them the chance to gain practical hands-on experience while earning and continuing their academic studies through day release.
Apprentices start in operational roles such as logistics, mechanics, and engineering. Our long-term development approach allows them to progress towards leadership positions, including commercial management, quantity surveying, and project management.
In terms of the perception of our sector being low-tech, new roles in sustainability, data analysis, and environmental management are emerging, and our Higher Level Apprenticeships help develop the skills needed for these fields.
We also recognise the ongoing challenge in breaking outdated stereotypes. We are committed to ensuring that opportunities in construction are accessible to everyone, regardless of background or gender.
Women are making a significant impact in roles across Northstone. The notion of construction as a male-dominated industry is outdated, and we continue to champion diversity and inclusion in our workforce.
Apprentice Week highlights how young professionals can build rewarding careers without necessarily following a traditional university route. We work closely with the Further Education colleges and universities, as well Workplus to engage students early and demonstrate the exciting and diverse careers our industry offers. Applicants for our 2025 apprentice opportunities are now live on the Workplus platform.
The 80th anniversary of the Construction Employers Federation allows us to reflect on how Northern Ireland’s landscape has transformed since 1945, from roads and bridges to schools, hospitals, and modern places to live, work, and learn. We have so much to be proud of.
Northern Ireland has immense potential, but to fully unlock it, we must create career opportunities that encourage young people to stay, to build careers, communities, and a sustainable future. If we fail to provide clear pathways and opportunities, we risk losing our brightest talent to other markets. We must invest in young talent today to prepare future leaders who will drive Northern Ireland into the future.
- · The Construction Employers Federation is hosting its Northern Ireland Construction Gala Dinner is on March 27.
- Steven Oldham is sales director at Northstone