Competition encourages construction trainees to put skills to the test

Shutterstock

REGISTRATION is now open for SkillBuild 2022. The event, run by the CITB and part of WorldSkills UK, challenges construction trainees to go head-to-head in a bid to be crowned the winner of their chosen trade.

The UK-wide regional qualifiers take place between April and June. During the one-day event, competitors will be tested on technical abilities, time management, problem solving, and skills working under pressure.

Across WorldSkills as a whole, there are more than 60 competitions. Those who excel in the qualifiers will be invited to take part in the national finals in November.

CITB said that the organisation’s recent Rethinking Recruitment report highlights the need to attract more people into construction and encourage employers to consider alternative recruitment methods. Covering 11 different trades, SkillBuild is described as a ‘fantastic opportunity’ to alter perceptions and promote the diverse range of roles available.

Tim Balcon, CITB chief executive, said, “We have a big challenge on our hands with the current skills gap and demand for more workers. It’s clear, now more than ever, we should be nurturing new talent and encouraging those individuals to pursue a career in the construction industry.

“SkillBuild is a wonderful initiative that not only helps young people grow personally, increasing their confidence and social skills, but it’s also proven to assist them professionally by developing their technical and employability skills.”

For more information, visit Go Construct. Registration for WorldSkills UK’s national skills competitions is open until April 1.