That’s a wrap on another successful Open Doors Week delivered by Build UK in partnership with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and CSCS.
With over 47,000 extra construction workers needed in the UK each year by 2029, the Open Doors project has never been more important.
Together, we are continuing our commitment around attracting new entrants into the industry and helping to raise awareness of bridging the construction skills gap.
Nationwide engagement across over 240 sites
For Open Doors week 2026, construction firms across the country welcomed over 6,000 visitors between March 23-28 from schools and workplaces onto more than 240 sites. This gave visitors a taste of what a career in construction has to offer.
“I didn't know how many actual jobs you could do in construction, and there's different aspects to it, so there's not just building it, there's also problem-solving and things like that,” one student said.
Another shared: “Thinking about everything that must go into here. Finance, I think that would be an amazing job for me to go into. I'd also love to be able to be the architect for the buildings.”
Open Doors in the media spotlight
This year, the Open Doors project was featured on BBC Look North shining a spotlight on the unique career opportunities available in the construction industry for young people and those considering a career change.
It featured Durham Academy students having a behind the scenes look at the construction work being completed by Willmott Dixon to build the school’s new campus.
Social Value Manager Hannah Blenkinsop from Willmott Dixon not only highlighted the number of trade and craft roles in demand but also underlined a variety of commercial roles on offer within the industry.
These include professions such as design management, quantity surveying, and even roles like her own, demonstrating the vast variety of opportunities the industry has to offer.
A growing need for new entrants
Government figures show that 946,000 people aged 16-24 are not in education, employment or training. With over 180 occupations and more than 100 apprenticeships across the industry, there is a clear opportunity to attract more people into construction.
Last year, 88% of visitors who attended Open Doors said they would be more likely to consider a career in construction after their site visit.
What can a career in construction offer you?
- Strong job security
- Clear career progression
- Good earning potential
- The opportunity to make a real impact in communities
- Varied and rewarding work
There is something for everyone and that’s exactly what Open Doors aims to showcase.
Find out more and search opportunities today.
