A Construction Workforce Crisis: Why More Funding Is Needed for Young Workers

Building a Better Future: The Need for Youth Investment in Construction

As the construction industry faces an unprecedented skills gap, one thing is clear: without significant investment, the pipeline of young talent entering the workforce will remain dangerously thin. A recent report from the Federation of Master Builders shows that the sector needs an additional 2,200 workers annually just to meet current demand—a figure that underscores a growing crisis.

"We need some kind of assurance that there is a long-term plan to support the funding of placements in work, to support young people into employment and to support employers." — Iwan Trefor Jones, Chief Executive at Adra

For organizations like Adra, this shortfall isn't just about numbers—it's about opportunity. Their Academi Adra program has become a model for how young people can be trained and placed in meaningful roles, yet even with support from external grants, the demand far exceeds what can be met.

• Over 100 applicants for just six positions
• 230 participants supported since 2021
• Programmes like Academi Adra offer a bridge between education and employment

The story of Cian Halliday, who transitioned from redundancy during the pandemic into construction through Academi Adra, is emblematic of how these programs can transform lives. But what makes his journey compelling isn't just that he found work; it's that he found a sustainable career path.

Skills and Employment: The Intersection of Opportunity and Need

The Welsh government's commitment to boosting construction skills is evident in their rollout of Level 2 apprenticeships in areas like bricklaying, scaffolding, and building maintenance. Yet, as Elin Williams from Adra points out, without consistent funding, these efforts can only go so far.

"We're calling for more funding for opportunities and projects like Academi Adra... We want to carry on to develop and expand to meet the rising demand that we're seeing." — Elin Williams

And it's not just about filling roles—it's about building confidence, offering real pathways to financial independence, and providing a foundation for future generations. Daniella Williams, who transitioned from NHS work into administrative construction roles, found her life transformed by a similar program.

"It's changed mine and my children's lives... I've been able to save, I've bought my own car, and it's given me so much more confidence." — Daniella Williams

Her story isn't unique. It reflects a broader trend: that the construction industry can be a powerful catalyst for economic empowerment—not just for individuals, but for entire communities.

The Housing Emergency and the Role of Construction Jobs

With Wales aiming to build 20,000 new social homes over four years, the need for skilled labor is not just urgent—it's critical. Clarissa Corbisiero, deputy chief executive at CHC, argues that investing in housing is, in fact, investing in economic health.

"Investing in our homes is the best investment we can make in Wales' economic health... Ending the housing emergency is more than bricks and mortar—it's about health, jobs and opportunity." — Clarissa Corbisiero

The ripple effects of this initiative are significant. The construction phase alone will create over 14,000 jobs per year. That's not just a number—it's a lifeline for communities where unemployment is high and opportunities are scarce.

But even with the best intentions, we're seeing signs that local colleges, like Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, are reaching capacity. Their enrolment has increased by 28% since 2025-26—a testament to growing interest in construction careers, but also a warning sign that more resources are needed.

What's Missing: A Long-Term Vision and Consistent Investment

What stands out across all these voices—from construction managers like Steven Walker to housing leaders like Iwan Trefor Jones—is the need for more than just one-off initiatives. We need long-term planning, consistent funding, and a coordinated effort that ensures young people aren't left behind.

The recent rise in Neet figures (young people not in education, employment, or training) in Wales is another indicator of what's at stake. If we don't act now, more young people will face the same struggles Cian Halliday did—displacement, uncertainty, and a lack of meaningful opportunity.

It's a call to action that goes beyond policy documents and into the real-world needs of individuals and communities. The construction industry isn't just about building homes; it's about building futures. And for that, we need more than just words—we need investment, commitment, and consistency.

Looking Ahead: A New Approach to Skills Development

The Welsh government's upcoming Skills Summit in October is a promising step forward, bringing together employers, educators, and policymakers to shape reforms. But if we're going to truly address the workforce crisis, we must look beyond short-term fixes.

We need systems that provide training, job placement, and ongoing support—especially for young people who may not have had access to these opportunities before. Programs like Academi Adra are vital, but they must scale up, with public and private funding working in tandem.

As I reflect on the stories shared by Cian, Daniella, and others, I'm reminded that behind every statistic is a human story. Every job created, every course offered, and every apprenticeship secured is not just an industry win—it's a life changed. And for that reason, investing in construction careers for young people isn't just smart policy; it's essential.