Construction and Engineering Week 2025 officially opened yesterday (23 September) at Lincolnshire Showground, bringing together more than 1,500 schoolchildren from across the region to explore careers in construction and engineering.

Running from Tuesday 23 to Thursday 25 September, the three-day event is one of the largest skills showcases in the UK, offering pupils aged 10–18 the chance to experience hands-on activities in carpentry, bricklaying, block paving, electrical and mechanical engineering, and even virtual reality welding.

Building Careers Through Hands-On Learning

Now in its 21st year, Construction and Engineering Week is designed to ignite passion and purpose in the next generation. The event connects young people, educators and industry leaders through immersive and inclusive learning experiences.

This year, more than 50 companies from Lincolnshire, Yorkshire and the Humber are showcasing a wide range of trades and careers. Many employers bring their apprentices and trainees—many of whom attended the event as schoolchildren themselves.

A Year 6 pupil from Welton St Mary’s Church of England Primary Academy said:

“It’s been fun and a really nice experience, finding out about all the different construction jobs. For one of the activities, we were learning how to saw planks of wood to make a roof – it’s been hard work but fun! I sometimes help my dad because he’s a builder. I’d definitely consider doing something like this when I’m older.”

Employers Engaging with Future Talent

Local employers view the event as a vital opportunity to connect with the workforce of tomorrow.

Ryan Donohue from Lindum Group commented:

“I think this event is great. It gets the children interacting, talking, and learning about possible jobs and careers in the construction industry. If this gives them inspiration and encourages them to consider construction as a career path, that can only be a good thing.”

He added that engaging with children at this stage helps employers explain the variety of careers available and inspire them to think about future opportunities.

Industry Support and Sponsorship

The free-to-attend event is open to primary and secondary schools and is supported by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB). It is organised by Lincoln Group Training Association (LGTA) and Abbey Access Training, in partnership with local employers.

Event support sponsors include:

• Lindum Group

• ARCO

• LineTrain

• Greater Lincolnshire Careers Hub

Tim Balcon, CEO of CITB, said:

“It was inspiring and encouraging to see so many young people finding joy in learning about construction and engineering. In a time when construction skills are in such high demand, it is vital that we continue to connect industry and education. The enthusiasm we’ve seen is a reminder of how important these events are in building the future workforce.”

Andrew Hockey, CEO of ECITB, added:

“Construction and Engineering Week is a great example of collaboration, with industry, training providers and schools working together to inspire the next generation. These hands-on experiences empower future talent and shape the workforce of tomorrow.”

Companies Showcasing Construction and Engineering Careers

More than 50 organisations are participating in Construction and Engineering Week 2025, including:

• Abbey Access Training

• Balfour Beatty

• Anglian Water Education Team

• ARCO

• Bowmer + Kirkland

• Gelder Group

• Lindum Group

• Morgan Sindall Property Services

• National Grid

• Orsted

• Rilmac Insulations & Scaffolding

• Royal Navy Attract

• Sunbelt

• Wienerberger

• WJ Group

• Worley Field Services

• YMCA

…and many more across construction, engineering, utilities, training and education.

Inspiring the Future Workforce

With 1,500 pupils, 50+ companies, and three full days of activities, Construction and Engineering Week 2025 highlights the importance of skills development and apprenticeships in building the UK’s future workforce.

By showcasing career pathways in construction, engineering, and related industries, the event not only supports regional skills development but also helps young people discover their potential in one of the UK’s most in-demand sectors.