Leading construction firms have provided school groups exclusive access to major infrastructure sites across Northern Ireland for Open Doors Week.

Approximately 5,000 new workers are required for the construction sector in Northern Ireland by 2028, according to the Construction Employers Federation (CEF), and this Open Doors initiative acts to better showcase careers in the industry.

Hundreds of school and college pupils have been given behind the scenes hard-hat tours to inspire their career choices. Sites have included Heron Bros Shared Education Campus in Ballycastle, the new DVA Test Centre in Mallusk by Henry Bros, the Dungannon Waste Water Treatment plant by GEDA and the new Hamilton Dock Hotel project at Titanic Quarter Belfast by Ganson.

Open Doors is co-ordinated by Construction Futures NI, and is part of Build UK's nationwide initiative to help schools and colleges display careers in construction.

Mark Spence, Chief Executive, Construction Employers Federation NI said: "One of the biggest challenges holding back the construction sector in Northern Ireland is the availability of skilled workers. Through Construction Futures, we're working together as an industry to make sure that jobs in this sector are front of mind when young people are making important decisions about their further education, training or apprenticeships.

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"While professionals like designers, engineers, marketers, and accountants are essential to the industry, nothing happens without boots on the ground. We need more skilled tradespeople and site workers, as they are the backbone of construction, shaping the world around us.

"Open Doors is a great way for the next generation to see what they could be in the future. Huge thanks go to all industry partners facilitating this initiative to showcase the world of opportunity that exists in the construction sector."

Many young people are surprised to learn about the diverse range of careers and skills they can bring to the sector. By offering behind-the-scenes insights, the industry is showcasing the exciting and varied opportunities available, inspiring the next generation to consider a future in construction.

Fionnuala McKenna, Head of Strategic Development, Construction Futures NI added: "For obvious safety reasons, it's not usually possible to give young people direct access to busy sites, so it's hard for them to imagine what these roles look like. There is a career for everyone in construction, male and female, whatever their background, skills or interests. Construction Futures aims to help more people to see the possibilities and pathways into the industry.

"Planting the seed in people’s minds now is crucial – especially for young people making careers and education choices, and those considering a career change. If they can be inspired to see themselves in these roles, they could be training or even working in the industry in a few months' time."

For more information on Construction Futures visit www.constructionfuturesni.com