The construction industry is the backbone of the UK economy, shaping homes, workplaces, and infrastructure for millions. Yet, the sector faces an ongoing challenge: a severe shortage of skilled workers. Recent statistics highlight the scale of the issue. According to the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), the UK will need an additional 225,000 construction workers by 2028 to meet demand. And then there are the owners of small building firms, aspiring estimators and CAD technicians – the UK need more of them!
The shortage isn’t just about numbers; it’s about ensuring quality, safety, and efficiency on every site. Without the right training and qualifications, the risk of mistakes, delays, and safety breaches increases, undermining the reputation and profitability of businesses across the sector.
Why Training Matters
Training is key to closing the skills gap. It equips individuals with the practical abilities and technical know-how to excel in their roles while boosting confidence and employability. For employers, investing in workforce training leads to higher-quality work, greater productivity, and a competitive edge. Training also ensures compliance with ever-evolving regulations, giving both contractors and clients peace of mind.
Equally important is the opportunity training provides to inspire a new generation of workers. The construction industry has long suffered from an outdated image that discourages younger people from pursuing careers in the trade. By offering modern, accessible training opportunities, we can showcase the rewarding, dynamic careers construction has to offer.
The Role of HBXL Skills Academy
At HBXL Skills Academy, we’re tackling the skills shortage head-on with our Skills Bootcamps and CITB-supported courses. These initiatives are designed to bridge the gap between demand and supply, offering flexible, high-quality training for both new entrants and experienced professionals.
Skills Bootcamps are intensive, government-backed training programmes focused on core construction skills. They are perfect for individuals looking to upskill or retrain and for employers keen to strengthen their teams. With a focus on practical, hands-on learning, participants leave equipped to hit the ground running in their roles.
Our CITB-supported courses are 40-hours rather than the 60-hours that make up our Skills Bootcamps. The format is is exactly the same, the Bootcamps just have a few more modules. CITB funding where available, help reduce the financial burden, enabling businesses to upskill their teams without breaking the bank.
Both courses come at construction from the digital perspective – valuable training in using a laptop to improve costing, design professionally and manage a business well.
On top of these longer courses, we also offer short courses that take just 30 minutes upto 4 hours. They cover health & safety, marketing and management.
Building a Better Future
Addressing the skills shortage isn’t just about plugging gaps; it’s about building a sustainable future for the construction industry. By investing in training through programmes like ours, employers aren’t just developing their workforce—they’re contributing to a more resilient, skilled, and competitive sector.
Whether you’re an employer looking to grow your team, or to expand your own knowledge, or an individual seeking to boost your career prospects, HBXL Skills Academy is here to help. Together, we can ensure the construction industry has the talent it needs to thrive for years to come.
Ready to make a difference? Explore our Skills Bootcamps and CITB-supported courses today!