The UK’s top construction trainee talent gathered in Milton Keynes this week to compete at the SkillBuild National Final 2024, delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). The 75 participating construction trainees went head-to-head over three days, with winners from each of the ten trades announced on the day.
SkillBuild, the largest and longest-running multi-trade skills competition, brings together highly skilled learners and apprentices to battle it out to be crowned winners of their chosen trade.
Following the Regional Qualifiers, which were held at various colleges across the UK earlier this year, the National Final took place at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes from 19 – 21 November. The event attracted over 1,500 visitors, exhibiting the variety of skills and career opportunities available within the industry.
Across the three days competitors were tasked with constructing a project designed by an expert panel of judges, within an 18-hour timeframe. The judges assessed the competitors on several aspects – including technical ability, time management, problem solving, skills working under pressure, and compliance with health and safety requirements.
With CITB’s Construction Skills Network (CSN) report forecasting a need for over 250,000 new construction workers by 2028, SkillBuild is more important than ever to spotlight the industry and the wide array of roles available within it.
Richard Bullock, Head of Careers Products at CITB, said: “Each year I look forward to SkillBuild and this year definitely did not disappoint.
“Now more than ever before is a critical time for skills development in construction, and SkillBuild has the power to turn interests and hobbies into rewarding careers. The past few days have been great. It’s been excellent getting to meet talented individuals and learn about their passion for their chosen trade.
“Congratulations to all our winners and participants at the SkillBuild National Final 2024. It’s a fantastic accomplishment, and everyone involved should be incredibly proud of their efforts.”
Jacqui Hawthorne, SkillBuild Judge 2024 and 2023 winner, said: “It’s been a great opportunity and such an honour to return to SkillBuild this year as a judge.
“I know exactly how all the participants feel after competing myself, and it’s such a thrilling experience to be surrounded by like-minded individuals with a real passion for what they do.
“A huge congratulations to all the participants at this year’s SkillBuild National Final, what a great achievement.”
Kyle Blower, Winner SkillBuild National Final 2024 of Bricklaying, said: “Being named a winner at SkillBuild is an indescribable feeling. It’s not just recognition for all the hard work and dedication I’ve put into developing my skills, but it’s also a huge boost of confidence in my abilities.
“This experience has shown me that I can turn my passion for construction into a successful career, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
SkillBuild National Final 2024 – list of winners:
Carpentry: 1st – Cai Curtis / 2nd – George Page / 3rd – Jeremiasz Guzik
