The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has released results of a survey finding that less than half of UK adults would encourage their child into a career as a builder
Shortly after thousands of UK students received their GCSE results, the survey highlights that construction career stigma is still prevalent among the population.
The survey also found interested contrasts between younger and older generations.
Younger people are less likely to encourage a construction career
Of those surveyed, those aged 16-21 were the least supportive of the idea, with the majority saying they would not recommend construction to their children or hypothetical children.
Those aged 26-44 were more receptive to the idea. It is speculated that this is because these people have been more exposed to working life, rather than mostly education.
The survey also examined the earning figures for construction careers in an attempt to tackle the construction career stigma, and found:
Average yearly earnings for the average construction worker now sit around £42,224. Furthermore, the average annual turnover for FMB member firms is approximately £1 million.
Industry demand is also at a high currently, with CITB estimating that 61,000 new workers will be needed every year to meet government targets.
Chris Carr, national president of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), said: “It’s striking that the parents or potential parents most recently out of education themselves are the least likely to back a trade career – but those in their late twenties, thirties and forties, who have experienced the reality of student debt and insecure jobs, are the most supportive. That tells us we’ve got a serious perception gap to close when it comes to the opportunities available in construction.
“Construction offers young people a stable, rewarding and well-paid career path without the burden of student loans. It’s also a brilliant path for those that are entrepreneurial, as you can establish your own businesses and turnover a significant sum – with FMB members averaging £1m and they range from sole traders to much needed house builders. With the country needing 61,000 new workers each year to meet housing targets, there has never been a better moment to join the trades.”
CIOB says more career advice is needed
In March, the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) released a report titled Attitudes Towards Construction Careers, and much like the newer FMB report, it details construction career stigma.
With a somewhat more nuanced view, their survey found that 68% of younger people (aged 16-24) had a positive view of construction careers, but just 31% would consider pursuing one. Of the surveyed parents, 65% had a positive view of the careers, and 79% would support their child pursuing a career in construction.
According to the report, the issue lies in career advice. 47% of younger people surveyed stated that construction was not included in their career advice.
The report’s summary states: “Certain perceptions such as the belief that construction careers are physically demanding, are unsafe, and poorly compensated remain preventative barriers to young people joining the sector. Whilst these beliefs are valid in some cases, the construction sector offers a diverse range of roles, including with the majority offering pay above the national average.
“The need to better inform young people about construction careers is underscored by the finding that nearly half of the young people surveyed reported that they had not received careers advice related to the construction sector whilst they were education, pointing to a large gap in opportunity to inform young people of these potential career pathways.
“Overall, there is a clear opportunity to increase awareness of the various career opportunities within the construction sector amongst young people. Efforts to bring new workers to the sector should focus on addressing misconceptions about construction careers and promote the full range of roles available to help young people who are hesitant due to concerns around the gender diversity or physical labour in the sector, to see the sector as a viable and attractive career option.”
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