Research into careers in construction

The construction industry has experienced recruitment and retention difficulties and skill shortages for many years, compounded by a lack of diversity in the sector. The existing workforce and potential labour supply has also been negatively impacted by the [Coronavirus Disease 2019] COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent recovery, the UK leaving the European Union ('Brexit'), and by a cost-of-living crisis. The construction industry needs to identify factors that make the industry attractive and understand how these differ across groups of potential and existing construction sector entrants. It also needs to understand how to promote these factors to encourage those with desired skills and characteristics to consider a career in the industry. However, it must also make sure that factors that the industry promotes align with the experience of those moving into construction to ensure retention and a continued labour supply.

This research was commissioned by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and summarises key insights from those inside and outside of the construction industry to understand how careers in construction are perceived and experienced. It builds on the CITB's existing portfolio of careers and recruitment research activity, drawing and extending on key performance indicators (KPIs) to support monitoring and evaluation of CITB's careers activities with a broad range of stakeholders. It presents findings and draws out recommendations to better understand, track and support: (1) attitudes to, attraction to, and awareness of the construction industry; (2) perceptions about entry and access to the sector; (3) engagement with construction careers information, advice and guidance; and (4) the influence of CITB activities.

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