UKCW’s Role Models take the lead to tackle the construction industry skills crisis

In the face of crippling skills shortages across the construction industry, a highly motivated group of civil engineers, architects, digital specialists, contractors and expert tradespeople are taking the lead to inspire the next generation. This as part of the UK Construction Week (UKCW) Role Model of the Year awards.

A total of 102 people from across all sectors of construction are on the shortlist as role models for the industry. All will go forward to the awards scheme finale at this year’s UK Construction Week event on 6 October.

The UKCW Role Models awards scheme provides both personal and wider community benefit, offering a student and college contact programme, as well as a public platform to professionals of any age and background.

It presents a way for them to network, teach, and share inspiring stories and invaluable experiences of how they came into their career, what it entails, their journey so far, and why they love what they do.

Nathan Garnett, UKCW event director, said:

“UKCW Role Models are inspiring people who have a strong story to tell and can help to attract others into similar roles. They also act as mentors. Previous years’ Role Models have been out visiting schools and meeting young people to encourage them into construction as a rewarding career. 

“We’ve had an amazing response for this year’s Role Model initiative, which unfortunately couldn’t go ahead last year due to the pandemic, so we are delighted to have so many enthusiastic and skilled individuals to consider.

“Each one has been doing exceptional work in all kinds of areas in the sector. All those shortlisted should be truly proud of their achievements and know that they are an inspiration to the next generation.

“As an ever-evolving industry, there are so many avenues to consider for a great career in construction, and many young people are unaware of just how varied their options are.

“This initiative goes to show the wide range of opportunities that are available to those looking to come on board. We want to showcase some of the best in the business whilst championing equality, diversity and inclusion in the industry, and we hope that our Role Models and their journeys will motivate others to do the same.”

‘First major construction event in two years’

UK Construction Week is the first major construction event in two years, taking place at Birmingham’s NEC from 5-7 October. It is completely free to attend.

UKCW has won two major awards in the last year. It scooped the Best Trade Show award from Exhibition News this month and the Best UK Tradeshow award by the Association of Event Organisers in 2020. This is in recognition of its innovations, positive delegate experience and sustainable procedures.

This autumn it is expected to attract more than 20,000 specifiers and buyers with at least 300 exhibitors providing launches, demos and offers on more than 6,000 products. Registrations for this year’s show have been running faster than any previous event.

Free registration to UK Construction Week is now open

One entry badge gives access to multiple sections…

 – Build
 – Modern Methods of Construction
 – Building Tech
 – Timber
 – Civils, Energy and HVAC
 – Surface and Materials
 – PLUS… Grand Designs Live

For regular event updates, including safety protocols and new features, follow UKCW on social media using the hashtag #UKCW2021.

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