Young Bricklayer Urges Peers to Embrace Construction Careers

An 18-year-old bricklayer from Swindon, Brooke Knight, is encouraging nearly one million unemployed young people in the UK to pursue careers in construction. Her message highlights the numerous job opportunities available in the sector, asserting that acquiring a practical skill can offer both financial stability and personal fulfillment.

Brooke began her journey in the construction industry two years ago, joining the workforce at the young age of 16 after discovering an apprenticeship opportunity through The Sun on Sunday‘s Builder Better Britain campaign. This initiative aims to promote the need for more British workers in the construction industry and reduce reliance on migrant labor. “There are so many jobs up for grabs,” Brooke stated. “Construction gives a skill for life, there are no college fees, and you can earn thousands a week after tax.”

Since qualifying, Brooke has witnessed her salary increase significantly, and she is now advocating for others to follow in her footsteps. Her enthusiasm is echoed by Bridget Phillipson, the UK’s Women and Equalities Minister, who recently acknowledged the critical shortage of workers in the building trade. She emphasized that this shortage is exacerbating the ongoing housing crisis in the UK.

New Initiatives to Train Young Workers

In response to this pressing issue, Phillipson announced the establishment of ten new Construction Technical Excellence Colleges, aimed at training homegrown talent to build essential infrastructure such as homes, schools, and hospitals. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to address the needs of the approximately 12.5 percent of young people aged 16 to 24 who are classified as NEETs (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) in the UK.

Brooke shared her own experience, stating, “I always wanted a practical role, but after reading your vacancies pullout, I finally had a breakthrough and was over the moon to land the job.” She expressed gratitude for the support provided by The Sun on Sunday, emphasizing the importance of encouraging local talent to fill construction roles. “People do not want to work in this trade because they feel like they can’t be bothered and it will be too much hard work,” she noted, urging British citizens to seize available opportunities.

Highlighting the potential financial rewards, Brooke explained that apprentices typically start at about £80 a day, with the potential to earn up to £130 daily after qualification. “You could end up taking home thousands a week after tax if you play your cards right,” she added. She also noted the camaraderie on construction sites, describing her colleagues as a “big family” who look out for one another.

Inspiring Others in the Industry

Brooke’s story is not unique; other young people are finding success in the construction trades. For example, Jermaine Lucas, a 17-year-old from Hull, began his apprenticeship in bricklaying after struggling in school. He shared, “I didn’t like sitting in a classroom. Doing this, I learn something new every day.” Jermaine is enthusiastic about his work, stating that he feels fulfilled knowing he is helping to build homes for others.

Moreover, the initiative has garnered support from various industry leaders. Ian Hodgkinson, a construction boss known for his work on the television show DIY SOS, expressed frustration over the high number of NEETs and the associated costs to society. He advocated for investment in skills-based training to convert unemployed young people into productive, tax-paying members of society.

Women in construction are also gaining recognition, with Emma Hulme, a bricklayer who transitioned from a career as a physiotherapist, actively advocating for more female participation in the industry. Emma founded Builder Girl, a company that promotes women in trades, and she regularly speaks to school groups to inspire young girls to consider careers in construction.

“There’s very good money in the building industry. If you want to have a physical job, it’s fantastic,” Emma stated, challenging stereotypes about women in trades. She hopes to inspire others by showcasing that success in construction is attainable for everyone.

As the government invests £100 million into the new technical colleges, there is optimism that these initiatives will equip young people with the skills they need to thrive in the construction industry. Bridget Phillipson emphasized the importance of action over words, urging unemployed youth to “get up, get skills and get building.” With young leaders like Brooke Knight and Emma Hulme paving the way, the future of construction in the UK may be brighter than ever.