A recent survey sponsored by NIE Networks and conducted by early talent specialists Workplus has found that apprentices across Northern Ireland, including those in the construction industry, are overwhelmingly confident in their future career prospects.

The Apprenticeship Pulse: The Voice of Apprentices in Northern Ireland survey, which gathered insights from 188 apprentices, revealed that 94% of respondents felt confident about their long-term career opportunities.

The survey highlighted a notable increase in apprentice earnings, with an average salary rise of £7,500 reported during their training period. Apprentices with more than three years' experience are earning an average of £28,526—exceeding the national average.

In terms of working preferences, 53% of apprentices expressed a preference for in-person work, pointing to the advantages of face-to-face learning and hands-on collaboration. A further 39% favoured a hybrid model, while only 8% preferred a fully remote arrangement.

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Founder and CEO of Workplus, Richard Kirk, said: "This survey highlights the incredible potential of apprenticeships but also underscores areas where the system can improve to better serve young people and employers. Too many students struggle to find opportunities due to a lack of awareness, fragmented application processes, and limited availability in certain industries."

He added: "At Workplus, we are committed to simplifying this journey by creating a centralised platform that connects talent with opportunities, streamlines applications, and provides better guidance and support. By addressing these barriers, we can ensure apprenticeships are accessible to all and continue to play a vital role in developing the skilled workforce our economy needs."

According to the majority of apprentices, their overall experiences have exceeded expectations, with praise for the integration of academic knowledge with practical learning, professional development opportunities, and financial independence. 

Paula Leathem, Head of HR at NIE Networks, said: "At NIE Networks, we are proud to support initiatives like the Apprenticeship Pulse report, which highlights the transformative impact of apprenticeships on individuals and businesses alike. Apprenticeships are key to developing the next generation of skilled professionals, and we are committed to creating opportunities that empower early talent to thrive while addressing critical skills gaps in the industry."