What's Happening?
The CECA Scotland Academy recently held a forum in Stirling, bringing together civil engineering employers, educators, and industry bodies to address workforce needs for Scotland's future infrastructure projects. The Academy, an industry-led training
and careers program, aims to support individuals entering civil engineering and construction roles. It offers 18 weeks of practical training and guarantees industry interviews for graduates. Since its inception, the Academy has supported over 100 learners, with a significant percentage moving into employment, apprenticeships, or further training. The forum discussed strengthening employer engagement and scaling the Academy's efforts, with feedback from employers who have successfully recruited Academy graduates.
Why It's Important?
The forum highlights the critical need for skilled workers in Scotland's civil engineering sector, which faces a strong pipeline of infrastructure projects. By providing practical training and guaranteed interviews, the CECA Scotland Academy addresses the skills gap and supports economic growth. Employers benefit from a ready workforce equipped with the necessary skills and attitudes, while graduates gain valuable career opportunities. This initiative is crucial for maintaining the momentum of infrastructure development and ensuring that projects are not delayed due to workforce shortages.
What's Next?
The Academy plans to expand its delivery to include more college partners across Scotland by August 2026. It is also exploring new training pathways, such as those recently introduced at Perth Prison, to prepare individuals for release and employment. The feedback from the forum will shape the next phase of the Academy, focusing on enhancing employer engagement and scaling the program to meet the growing demand for skilled workers in the civil engineering sector.
