Construction Skills Network forecasts 2017-2021 - Northern Ireland

The industry is expected to return to growth in 2017 and expand by an annual average of 1.6% over the five years to 2021, close to the UK rate of 1.7%. Both the housing sectors are projected to see decent growth over the forecast period, the public one driven by the Northern Ireland Executive’s commitment to fund the construction of 1,600 new homes for social rent over the next few years.

• Growth is expected to focus on the Public housing sector at 6.1%
• Employment in Northern Ireland is forecast to grow by an annual average of 0.4%
• Northern Ireland has an average recruitment requirement of 710

What does this mean for construction jobs? 

This means that demand for some trades will be higher than others. The jobs most in demand over the next five years, in Northern Ireland, are:

• Bricklayers – 179
• Wood trades and interior fit out staff - 140
• Other construction process managers – 70
• Painters and decorators – 50 
• Plasterers - 50

What’s CITB doing to bridge the gap? 

We’re committed to helping construction employers deliver the pipeline of work faster, better and more efficiently. Using our evidence base on skills requirements, we will ensure employers can access the high quality training their workforce needs. 

We will also help construction attract and retain new recruits. Working with industry we’ve launched Go Construct, a web portal showcasing all of the great career opportunities available in our sector.

CITB is also improving our funding to employers, through a reformed grants scheme that invests in the most needed skills and makes it easier for companies of all sizes to access funding.

How can you benefit? 

If you’re keen on building and want a fulfilling and financially rewarding career delivering some of the iconic projects in your area, visit Go Construct.

To find out how to access grants to train your workforce, visit CITB funding.