New construction recruitment initiative unveiled
With 52% of construction employers in the West Midlands currently experiencing recruitment challenges, Walsall College hosted an event to showcase its new programme to fast-track jobseekers into the industry.
The Construction Gateway is a free pre-employment programme that helps to provide local construction companies with a qualified and job ready workforce.
Over 30 sector representatives received an overview of the 20-day programme developed in partnership with West Midlands Combined Authority. The programme’s flexibility means employers can specify the areas of work that participants receive training in. These include bricklaying, carpentry and plant operatives.
Debbie Illidge, Senior Curriculum Leader at the College said: “With recruitment shortfalls now at a critical stage in some areas, the Construction Gateway provides a solution on how we fill some of these immediate start roles. Free CSCS and CPCS cards can be provided for trainees so they are ready for work.”
Employers at the event included the Accord Group, Barhale and Wilmott Dixon. Attendees, Taylor Wimpey later toured the College’s Green Lane campus where construction skills training is delivered
Employers can find out more about the Construction Gateway programme by emailing constructiongateway@walsallcollege.ac.uk or registering here.
