Women could hold the key to closing the skills gap in construction and engineering – but only if more are actively encouraged to look seriously at the industry.
That is the view of Hugh Baird College Principal Yana Williams. The Further Education College in Bootle runs a programme of construction and engineering courses for both school leavers and those already working in the sector, but the majority of those applying for places are still male.
With around 8,000 students each year graduating nationally from university with engineering-related qualifications and a market with the capacity to absorb 30,000 there is a yawning skills gap. Ms Williams believes that Merseyside could lead the way in closing that gap by encouraging more women to opt for a career in construction.
“Merseyside is one of a number of UK cities launching huge infrastructure developments,” said Ms Williams. “As a result there is a vital need for skills in the construction sector. At Hugh Baird College we offer 17 construction-related full and part-time courses and the students who apply are predominantly male.
“There are tremendous opportunities for women to make a career in construction but many never even consider the prospect. Frequently we hear girls say construction is ‘man’s work’. The industry however is hungry for skilled workers, male or female, to bridge the current shortfall.
“And it is not just female 16-year-old school leavers who are failing to exploit a need in the market. Women looking to retrain often do not consider the engineering sector at all.”
Hugh Baird College runs BTEC and National Diploma courses in basic construction, carpentry and joinery, brickwork, painting and decorating and wall and floor tiling. In addition it will work with employers to offer existing female staff training to transition into the construction side of their business.
“Locally there are a number of major construction projects coming up which will require skilled workers including the creation of the Liverpool SuperPort and wind farm construction,” said Ms Williams. “Employment opportunities are growing and the skilled workforce needs to keep up with demand.”
In 2013/14 Hugh Baird will be holding female-only work experience opportunities in construction for Year 10 students. With the support of Liverpool Education Business Partnership female students will try construction for the first time.
The college will also show them how construction qualifications can offer an alternative route to university and management. Hugh Baird itself is planning to launch degree courses for construction and engineering and sponsored Higher Apprenticeships in 2014.
“There is a virtually untapped well of potential female construction workers and engineers which could help meet the growing needs of the industry,” said Ms Williams. “If women can be encouraged to seriously consider careers in the construction sector it could be a great benefit to the region.”