Registration open for annual construction skills event

CITB chief executive Tim Balcon. Image credit: Peter Devlin

REGISTRATION is now open for SkillBuild 2023, the annual competition delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

The event offers an opportunity for apprentices and learners of all ages to compete regionally in various trade categories.

13 regional qualifying heats will run from April to June, where competitors will be tested on their technical abilities, time management, problem solving and skills working under pressure. Those who excel will be invited to take part in the SkillBuild National Finals, taking place in November.

Apprentices and learners can compete in 10 different trade categories: bricklaying, carpentry, joinery, painting and decorating, plastering, plastering and drywall systems, roof slating and tiling, stonemasonry, wall and floor tiling and furniture and cabinet making.

Level 1 competitions are also available in wall and floor tiling and bricklaying.

Tim Balcon, CITB chief executive, said, “We know the next 18 months won’t be easy with the current skills gap and demand for more workers. As a result, recruitment, training, development, and upskilling remain major priorities for the industry for 2023 and beyond.

“SkillBuild is just one of the many ways CITB is providing support to directly attract a diverse range of recruits for industry. It’s 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.”

If you have a student or apprentice who would like to participate in the competition, please visit the Go Construct website for more information and to register. Registration is open until April 1.