As the demand for infrastructure and development grows in the construction industry, so does the need for a skilled, adaptable workforce. However, the sector is grappling with a significant shortage of trained professionals, with thousands of job vacancies going unfilled across the UK.
For companies in the construction industry, including quantity surveyors, this talent gap poses serious challenges. Whether it’s managing project budgets, ensuring value for money, or keeping developments on track, skilled personnel are the foundation of a thriving, efficient industry.
In this post, we explore why investing in construction skills training isn’t just a good idea but a necessity, and how government-backed initiatives and industry bodies like CITB are making it easier than ever for businesses to upskill their teams.
Why Investment in Skills Training Is Essential
High Demand, Low Supply
The construction sector is booming, with major infrastructure projects and housing developments driving demand across the country. Yet, a growing number of roles are going unfilled due to a lack of trained workers. This shortage affects all areas of the industry, from on-site trades to technical roles such as quantity surveying, cost consultancy, and project management.
Economic Impact
The skills shortage isn’t just a sectoral problem but a national one. The UK’s economic growth and infrastructure development rely heavily on a well-functioning construction industry. Without a skilled workforce, project delays, rising costs, and reduced productivity become the norm, ultimately slowing down progress on everything from housing developments to transport links.
Government Initiatives
Recognising the urgency of the situation, the UK government has ramped up its investment in construction skills training. Through partnerships with industry organisations, public funding is being channelled into initiatives designed to boost the construction workforce, improve employability, and build long-term capacity.
‘Plan for Change’ and the Future Workforce
As part of its broader strategy to futureproof the construction sector, the UK government introduced the ‘Plan for Change’, a policy framework aimed at modernising construction practices and workforce development. This plan focuses on building a more diverse, tech-savvy, and sustainable workforce by aligning education and training pathways with industry needs. Through reforms in apprenticeships, digital skills training, and collaboration with employers, the plan supports long-term sector growth while addressing immediate labour shortages. For construction firms, this represents a crucial opportunity to align with government priorities and access new talent pipelines.
Industry-Wide Collaboration
One of the key players in this effort is the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). CITB provides vital funding and resources to support businesses in training their workforce. Their programs are tailored to meet the needs of modern construction employers, offering everything from hands-on skills training to leadership development.
Funding and Resources Available to Employers
Whether you’re a small construction business or a large consultancy like a quantity surveying firm, there are several avenues available to help support your training goals:
CITB Funding Opportunities
CITB offers multiple funding streams designed to ease the financial burden of upskilling your workforce.
Skills and Training Fund
Targeted at small and micro-sized businesses, this fund helps cover the cost of grant-eligible training. It supports a wide range of training activities and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your business and workforce.
Leadership and Management Development Fund
Aimed at larger CITB-registered employers, this fund provides financial support for delivering leadership and management training. This is particularly valuable for those looking to develop future-ready teams capable of managing complex projects and leading business growth.
In-House Training Support
For companies that prefer to deliver training internally, CITB offers a variety of resources to help employers build and deliver their own programs. These include toolkits, best practice guides, and expert insights to ensure training is both effective and aligned with industry standards.
Additional Training Providers and Certifications
City & Guilds Qualifications
City & Guilds is a well-respected name in vocational training and offers a wide range of construction qualifications. These certifications cater to all levels and are widely recognised across the industry.
CSCS Card Scheme
Any professional working on a construction site in the UK is required to hold a valid Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card. This certification demonstrates that an individual has the health and safety knowledge necessary to work safely on-site, and it’s a vital first step for anyone entering the industry.
As quantity surveyors, we understand the critical importance of having skilled professionals at every stage of the construction process. Investing in training not only strengthens our own capabilities but also contributes to the resilience and sustainability of the wider construction sector.
If you are looking for quantity surveyors to manage your next project, please get in touch with us today.