Ok, well we know it’s not every young child’s dream to work in the Construction / Fit Out industry but the opportunities for a long-term, stable, fulfilling career do exist and we all have a responsibility to attract this talent, support, nurture and embrace the next generation.
Attracting and retaining talent in the UK fit-out sector requires a proactive approach that makes the industry more appealing, provides clear career development pathways, and offers accessible, high-quality training. Here’s how we can address the challenge:
1. Make the Industry More Attractive
• Improve Perception: Highlight the dynamic, creative, and problem-solving aspects of fit-out work. Emphasize sustainability, technology integration (BIM, AI, automation), and the tangible impact of transforming spaces.
• Engage with Schools & Universities: Partner with colleges and universities to offer guest lectures, site visits, and short internship programs to expose young people to the industry early.
• Apprenticeships & Traineeships: Set up structured programs that offer paid learning while gaining hands-on experience. The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) offers funding and support for apprenticeships.
• Social Media & Branding: Develop a strong employer brand showcasing career success stories, behind-the-scenes project insights, and the innovative aspects of your work.
2. Provide Cost-Effective Training in the First 3-5 Years
• CITB and NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications): Encourage junior staff to complete CITB-certified courses in project management, health & safety, and construction site supervision. Many courses are funded by government grants.
• On-the-Job Mentoring & Rotations: Create a structured mentoring program where experienced staff guide junior employees through real projects, giving them exposure to different roles (e.g., site management, procurement, design coordination).
• Digital Construction Training (BIM & Project Management Software): Offer free or subsidized courses on BIM, AutoCAD, Procore, Asta Powerproject, and other industry software that enhance efficiency and technical skills.
• Short Online Courses (Free & Low-Cost): Platforms like FutureLearn, Coursera, and Open University offer affordable courses in construction project management, leadership, sustainability, and contract administration.
• Soft Skills & Leadership Development: Provide training in negotiation, communication, and problem-solving—skills essential for project managers and site supervisors. The CIOB (Chartered Institute of Building) offers recognized courses.
3. Improve Retention & Career Growth
• Clear Career Pathways: Define structured progression routes (e.g., Trainee → Site Manager → Project Manager → Contracts Manager).
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Offer hybrid working for planning and management roles to attract a younger workforce.
• Support with Professional Memberships: Fund or subsidize memberships for CIOB, RICS, or APM to provide credibility and continued learning opportunities.
By positioning the fit-out sector as an exciting, modern industry with strong career development and accessible training, you can attract and retain top talent while closing the skills gap in construction.
