Think Build – inspiring young people

The ‘Think Build’ project brings the construction industry together to inspire young people and open their eyes to the range of career opportunities available within the sector. It does this by providing young people with access to industry mentors, workplace visits and paid internships in the built environment industry that will support the development of a talent pipeline of enthusiastic, work-ready young people and also help to address the lack of diversity in the sector. During the pilot year we have had  fantastic results with 90 students registered across three centres, London, Birmingham and Manchester, of which 90% are from BAME backgrounds and 30% are female.

Originally developed in partnership with Wates Group, Think Build employers now include: Arcadis, Willmott Dixon, Keepmoat, Colmore Tang, Turner and Townsend, BAM, Kier and Carillion.

The employer’s perspective: Arcadis

Working with Career Ready is a great fit for Arcadis as they support our vision of ‘Improving Quality of Life’. We are keen to make a difference to the lives of young people and we hope that the students will gain knowledge about the industry and careers within Arcadis as well as learning key soft skills they’ll need in any career.  It is vital that the construction industry shares as much knowledge and information about career opportunities as possible – especially with the skills shortage facing the industry.

The employer’s perspective: Wates

The built environment industry is a rich and diverse sector providing fantastic opportunities. At Wates Group, we recognise the importance of working with schools and colleges to ensure that we attract the best talent to work for us to meet the needs of our growing business. Through this partnership, alongside other organisations, we will inspire the next generation to ensure construction is a career of choice not chance.

“During my internship I found working in the areas of Design and Quantity Surveying the most interesting. I have picked up skills in Excel and teamwork and got an insight into project proposals and how to interpret architecture designs. I would definitely consider a career in the construction industry after my internship!”

“The strategy and planning and the community work involved in construction was much bigger than I thought. I didn’t know the role of Design Manager existed. Previously I wouldn’t have considered a role in the industry. Now I would most definitely give it a try.”