The Built Environment Youth Summit brought together top employers and young people already working in the industry with the construction students. Organised by the Career Colleges Trust and taking place at Pearson’s headquarters on the Strand, the event showcased the many career pathways within the sector.
The Youth Panel consisted of ten young people already working in the industry across various trades, including electrical engineering, bricklaying, plumbing and project management. They talked to the students about why they have chosen a career in construction and the training they are undertaking.
Following the Youth Panel two keynote speeches were given by construction experts. Students then got the chance to ask a panel of employers questions during a Q&A session.
Among the students attending the event was Patrick (17), who is studying for a Level 2 qualification in Electrical Installation at our Holly Hill campus. He said: “This event has been really helpful. Hearing from other young people in the industry has given me a better idea of how to get ahead. I prefer being hands on, rather than sitting behind a desk, so think an apprenticeship is definitely for me. I am really interested in technology and want to move my career into this side of things.”
Construction Curriculum Team Manager at London South East Colleges, Evren Ali, attended the event with his students and said: “It is really important for our students to have contact with employers and with young people working in industry. The career opportunities in the construction industry are endless, with the potential to earn a very good income.
“This event highlighted the many possible routes available, with a real emphasis on the value of apprenticeships. I hope our students have been inspired to pursue an exciting career in this expanding sector.”
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