NCC Deputy Head Steven Ankers’ advice for anyone who wants to work in construction: “Go for it”.

Steven Ankers, Deputy Head of CITB’s National Construction College (NCC), believes young people and career changers should “absolutely” consider a career in construction.

His advice for potential learners? “Go for it… A career in construction can be incredibly rewarding, offering a mix of hands-on work, problem-solving, and opportunities to shape the built environment.

“It is a career for life, with many opportunities to progress in the industry, to work around the world, and to earn an excellent salary.”

Why young people and career changers should consider a construction career

“The construction industry consistently faces skills shortages, meaning strong job security and plenty of opportunities,” explains Steven. “With ongoing infrastructure projects, housing developments, and green energy initiatives, demand is only growing.”

Construction offers a wide range of global roles - it’s “not just hard hats and bricks”. Examples include design and planning, project management, skilled trades and sustainability and innovation.

The advantages to a construction career are many. Apprenticeships and training programs mean students can earn a wage while learning. This is useful in an industry that values experience and career progression.

Another perk is the instant job satisfaction. “Construction professionals can see the results of their work - buildings, roads, schools, hospitals. There’s a real sense of pride in contributing to the built environment.”

Why is learning at the National Construction College special?

Teaching is something Steven is passionate about. He joined the NCC in 2022 after nearly 20 years at Middlesbrough College.

The NCC offers world-class training and assessment facilities as well as a dedicated off-campus team. Teaching staff are industry experts, offering outstanding pastoral, careers and welfare support.

Many NCC students achieve high grades and head off to lucrative destinations. Through the NCC's commercial offer, they have continuous opportunities to grow and develop.

The NCC offers training that other providers can’t, including via non-traditional pathways. This includes niche industry areas without traditional apprenticeships, such as road markings, tunnelling and lead working.

Steven believes NCC’s success is down to more than training and results. “What makes a college truly special goes beyond academics - it's about the culture, leadership, and the learner experience.”

What apprenticeships does the National Construction College offer?

The NCC supports approximately 12,000 commercial learners per year. There are around 100 applications across sites.

They offer the following construction apprenticeships:

England: Scaffolding, Lightning Protection Operatives, Steeplejack, Groundwork, Highways Maintenance, Roofing: Slate and Tiling, Formwork, Steel fixing, Dry Lining Demolition, Plant Operatives, Plant Mechanics and Lifting Technicians

Scotland: Scaffolding, Plant Mechanics, Ceiling Fixer, Drylining, Highways Maintenance, General Construction, Built up Felt Roofing, Roof Sheet and Cladding.

Scottish apprentices can also train at NCC England East in Plant Operatives, Crane Operatives, Steeplejack and Lightning Protection.

What’s next for the NCC?

Steven confirms the future for NCC is exciting.

There has been “significant” investment in the new NCC England South East, as well as at NCC England East. This includes new state-of-the-art equipment, an innovation centre and welfare facilities. Accommodation is being redeveloped, while classrooms will receive new ViewSonic boards.

Over at NCC Scotland, there’ll be a new plant and equipment, classroom ViewSonic boards and new IT rooms. The premises also have new external cladding and a new roof. An innovation centre is incoming.