When we contemplate the concept of construction, the immediate imagery consists of safety helmets, stained jeans and fluorescent safety attire. This might accurately depict much of the scene at building sites, however, work and study possibilities in this area far exceed these stereotypical perceptions.
Based on the insights from industry insiders, there is considerable diversity in available study routes and entry points.
Unbeknown to many, conventional scholarly pathways do exist in the construction sector. This generally caters to the “more advanced roles” within the industry, as per Conor Greham, who is in charge of education and development at the Construction Industry Federation (CIF).
Disciplines such as civil engineering, architecture, and quantity surveying fall under this category.
Bachelor’s degree programmes as well as diploma courses are available in these fields. These courses typically encompass hands-on experience, adds Greham.
However, the entry criteria for such courses can be quite stringent. For instance, architecture studies in UCD in 2023 needed 567 CAO points, while a civil engineering course at Galway University in the same year needed 512 points.
Luckily, these are not the exclusive gateways into these sectors. Mr. Greham states that the construction field is introduced to students at the high school level, and many go on to choose an apprenticeship.
Pupils are introduced to subjects like technical graphics, construction studies, woodwork etc., in secondary school. For those inclined towards this direction, an apprenticeship proves to be an excellent choice, he explains.
Apprenticeship duration depends on the programme, with the usual arrangement being four days on-site accompanied by a day in the classroom.
A range of apprenticeships are available in areas such as plastering, bricklaying, and electrical work. Furthermore, there have been several new apprenticeship schemes introduced in this industry in recent years, Mr. Greham says.
The National Association of Scaffolding and Access Contractors, in partnership with Laois and Offaly Education Training Board, have pioneered a scaffolding apprenticeship programme, hosted at Mount Lucas National Construction Training Centre. This Level 5, two-year apprenticeship promises an in-depth understanding and expertise in scaffolding mechanics, different forces acting on scaffold structures, while also including specialist skills, ensuring apprentices gain complete competence, asserted Mr Greham.
Progressions in scaffolding systems, access, coupled with enhanced health and safety protocols, lead to the initiation of the apprentice scheme, inaugurated in May. Employers report a significant growth in apprentices’ confidence, skills and on-site execution and have expressed great satisfaction with the programme.
There are plans to kickstart a Level 6, three-year roofing apprenticeship, with the first intake expected in the last quarter of this year. This scheme is under development with contributions from Ballyfermot Training Centre and the City of Dublin Education and Training Board.
Reflecting on the journey of the past year, Mr Greham noted it has been an “exceptionally thrilling year for the construction industry – especially in educational progress.” Significant to these improvements is the recent inauguration of a civil engineering apprenticeship by ATU Sligo, endorsed by CIF, introduced in November 2023, with future expansion plans into other technological universities.
“This initiative embodies our resolve to nurture a fresh wave of competent professionals via creative educational avenues,” added Mr Greham.
Moreover, a quantity survey apprenticeship is in the works, developed by CIF and the Society of Chartered Surveyors in Ireland, in partnership with ATU, with a projected initial student intake planned for September 2025.
This crucial move towards an apprenticeship model for conventionally academic roles hints at a wider change in our perception towards educational and skill advancement in the construction sector, remarked Mr Greham.
Mr Greham emphasised the importance of diversity, asserting that “Not every individual is cut out for the purely academic route!” He shared that this could potentially be a hurdle to acquire qualifications for some.
He also mentioned that professions like civil engineering involve practical work and are not purely academic. “Our aim is to create opportunities in the industry through diverse pathways,” he added.
In line with other aspects around the globe, the construction industry too has encountered changes brought about by technological advancements.
Despite common misconceptions about the sector, like being male-centric or demanding a particular physical stature, the construction industry provides numerous career prospects, even for those who don’t fit into the conventional roles. The sector now embraces contemporary construction techniques, broadening the career opportunities for a wider audience.
New technologies are instrumental in enhancing efficiency and sustainability in the field, opening up an array of jobs hitherto overlooked or unviable. From construction engineering to digital modelling, project management and sustainability, as well as architectural technology, a wealth of career choices await the industry hopefuls. This is especially true for school leavers who are well-versed in IT or digital modelling, but have no desire to become an electrician or a crane operator.
According to Mr Greham, one additional gateway into the industry is through the apprenticeship programme offered on the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) Moylish campus in Limerick (Midwest), and the TUS Athlone Campus in Co Westmeath. The full-time, 12-week programme allows students to experience a variety of apprenticeships ranging from Electrical and Mechanics, through to Fitting, Welding, Carpentry & Joinery, Plumbing, and Brick & Stone. Following these, they proceed onto an apprenticeship in their chosen field. Participants are also guided in CV writing and interview preparation, and also undertake a two-week work-experience stint, culminating in earning health and safety and safe pass certificates.
The programme prioritises those from impoverished areas, with eligibility factors such as coming from an economically deprived area, being a Deis school attendee, and possessing a household income less than €45,790, among others.
In Mr Greham’s view, the construction industry extends rewarding opportunities for the eager ones. Furthermore, with the acute demand and talent deficit causing an upswing in job prospects for tradesmen in Ireland currently, a vocation in this field is highly enticing. Moreover, with these skills being global, this sector offers the prospect of worldwide travel.
Building upon this, there also exist opportunities for career progression. According to Mr Greham, undertaking training as a scaffolder does not mean one is confined to that role indefinitely. It’s probable that such training might lead someone to eventually assume a position such as a project manager.
“The demand is high in the wet trades sector, such as electricians, plasterers, plumbers, and quantity surveyors. These are precisely the sectors where we are finding it challenging to source individuals to fill vacant positions,” he noted.
“These are typically the first roles people fulfill. Those in higher managerial positions would, in most instances, have begun their careers in these roles. So, if you’re interested in career development, there’s always potential for that.”