Building a career through apprenticeships in construction

Across construction, demand for skilled professionals continues to increase, with the sector needing to recruit around 206,000 additional workers by 2030 to meet projected demand. Yet for many people, understanding how to access these careers remains a challenge. The government’s Skills for Life campaign is helping to address this by bringing together clear information on technical education routes, including apprenticeships, T Levels and higher technical qualifications.

My own experience reflects how these structured pathways can support long-term career development. I did not initially set out to work in construction and, like many young people, I explored different options at school. However, my interest in the sector began at 15, when I watched an extension being built at my parents’ home. Seeing how the project came together from start to finish sparked an interest that stayed with me.

Despite this, I initially chose a different path before returning to construction. Determined to gain practical experience, I contacted local building firms directly and took on labouring work to get started. That hands on experience gave me my first real insight into how the industry works day to day, and I quickly realised how much I enjoyed being on site and seeing projects take shape. My persistence eventually led to a bricklaying apprenticeship, providing a clear entry point into the industry and the opportunity to learn on site while developing formal skills.

Developing skills through practical experience

A defining strength of the apprenticeship route is its focus on applied learning. Working on live projects allowed me to build confidence alongside technical ability, reinforcing what I was learning in a practical setting. This approach also supported the development of wider skills, including teamwork, communication and problem solving, which are essential across construction environments.

I completed my apprenticeship in 2009, just one week before giving birth to my daughter. At the time, I continued working on site with adjustments to ensure safety, which required resilience and determination. Experiences like this helped build the confidence needed to progress in what can be a demanding but rewarding industry.

Progression through technical pathways

Completing my apprenticeship provided a strong foundation for further development. I continued to build on this through additional qualifications alongside full-time work, allowing me to broaden my knowledge and experience across different areas of construction.

Today, I am a senior site manager at BAM Construction, overseeing projects across the Midlands. My role involves managing subcontractors, coordinating site activity and ensuring projects are delivered safely and to a high standard. Over the years, I have worked on a range of developments, including the Barclaycard Arena, Beorma Quarter and several school projects across Coventry, Birmingham and Rugeley. What I find most rewarding is seeing a project come together from the ground up and knowing you have played a part in creating something that will be used by communities for years to come.

Meeting the industry’s skills needs

The need for accessible, well-understood training routes is increasingly important across construction and related sectors. As industries respond to new technologies and evolving requirements, employers need individuals with both practical experience and the ability to continue developing their skills.

However, there is still a lack of awareness around the different pathways available. Early in my career, I often found myself having to prove my capability, particularly as one of the few women on site. While the industry has evolved, improving visibility and understanding of these career routes remains essential to attracting a more diverse and skilled workforce.

Creating clarity with Skills for Life

The Skills for Life campaign plays an important role in improving understanding of technical education pathways. By bringing together information on apprenticeships, T Levels and other routes, it provides a clear starting point for those considering careers in construction and beyond.

This clarity supports both individuals and employers. It helps people make informed decisions about their futures, while enabling organisations to attract and develop a skilled workforce equipped to meet future demand.

Opening opportunities for future talent

Apprenticeships remain an effective way to enter the construction sector as they provide practical experience, recognised qualifications and a structured pathway for progression, enabling individuals to build long-term careers. Reflecting on my own journey, choosing an apprenticeship offered a clear and sustainable route into the industry. It provided the experience, skills and foundation needed to progress over time.

For those considering their next step, exploring technical pathways can open the door to a stable and rewarding career. With support from initiatives such as Skills for Life, more people are better equipped to understand their options and take that first step into the sector.

Claire Brittain is a senior site manager at BAM Construction