How work experience placements at Wates are shaping careers in construction
Martine Corbett, Social Value Manager, shares her thoughts on how our programme is helping develop future generations in the built environment industry.
At school, I often admired those peers who had a clear vision for their future careers. My own path was less defined. I spent many years working for a large corporate organisation before transitioning to a role within a college. It was there that I discovered my passion for working with young people, a role that taught me to judge less and care more.
When I was offered a position in construction as a Trainee and Apprentice Manager, I wasn’t sure how my skills would translate to the industry. I quickly realised that many of them were highly transferable. The advice I used to give students, that attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference, suddenly applied to me. Moving into construction has been one of the best decisions I’ve made, and staying connected with local schools and colleges continues to be one of the most rewarding aspects of my role.
As a Social Value Manager, I now have the privilege of helping young people explore the diverse and exciting careers available within construction. One of the most fulfilling parts of my role is working directly with schools and colleges to bridge the gap between education and industry.
The T-Level programme plays a vital role in this, offering students the chance to connect classroom theory with practical, hands-on experience. This bridge between education and the working world is essential for building confidence and preparing students for the workplace. Providing meaningful insights into the sector from design and project management to sustainability and digital innovation helps students see the full scope of opportunities available.
This October half term, we’re proud to be running a group work experience programme in partnership with Construction Youth Trust. T-Level students will spend a week with our teams, gaining practical experience, meeting professionals across disciplines, and seeing first-hand what it’s like to be part of a live construction project. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch their confidence grow throughout the week. Many arrive unsure of what to expect but leave with a renewed sense of direction and enthusiasm for their future careers.
Looking ahead to the February half-term, we’re inviting Careers Leaders and Tutors from local schools and colleges to our “Reimagining Careers” event to learn more about the breadth of career opportunities within our business, particularly in preconstruction and support roles. According to the CITB, the UK construction industry will need over 250,000 new workers by 2028. Yet many young people remain unaware of the full range of roles available. A recent study by Opinion Matters found that 47% of students said construction was not covered in the careers advice they received during education.
By showcasing the variety of disciplines and skillsets required, we aim to equip careers advisors with accurate, up-to-date information to support their students. We want to help young people match their skills and interests to suitable roles and challenge the outdated perception that construction is “just hard hats and muddy boots.”
It’s essential that young people and the educators who guide them understand the real possibilities a career in construction can offer. Through these programmes, we’re helping to bridge that gap and inspire the next generation.
If you’re a Careers Leader, teacher, or college representative interested in learning more about opportunities in construction, we’d love to welcome you to our February Insight Event.
Register your interest or get in touch today to find out more.
