Northern Ireland is currently facing a growing skills challenge that extends far beyond the construction industry.
Demand for skilled workers continues to rise, exposing persistent gaps between labour supply and industry need.
Yet many young people are being channelled down a narrow definition of success – one that prioritises academic routes while overlooking vocational pathways that are equally valuable, respected and essential to the economy.
Higher level apprenticeships, particularly in construction, continue to suffer from outdated perceptions.
Despite offering structured learning, recognised qualifications and clear career progression, they are often viewed as a second choice rather than an equal alternative to university.
This mindset, reinforced at times by schools, careers guidance and even well-intentioned parents, has remained largely unchanged and continues to contribute directly to the skills shortages now facing the sector.
Construction today is a highly skilled, modern industry. It relies on technical expertise, problem-solving, teamwork, and increasingly digital and sustainability-focused knowledge.
Careers in trades such as bricklaying, groundworks, joinery, and plastering sit alongside higher-level education and professional roles that support progression into management and leadership positions.
Yet many young people are never exposed to this reality early enough to make an informed choice. As we move through 2026, workforce pressures are expected to intensify, with an ageing skills base and continued demand for infrastructure making early intervention more critical than ever.
Schools play a crucial role in shaping perceptions. Too often, vocational education is discussed later or framed as an alternative for those who do not pursue traditional higher education.
Earlier engagement, balanced careers advice and stronger links between education and industry are essential if pupils are to see Higher Level Apprenticeships as a credible and aspirational option.
Government must also play its part. Aligning education policy with labour market demand is critical. Recent budget discussions have signalled an increased recognition of apprenticeships and skills pathways, including the need to better support employers who invest in training.
Turning this intent into tangible outcomes in 2026 will be vital. Investment in skills pathways, clearer progression routes and practical support for employers are all needed to ensure the system works for everyone involved. Without this alignment, skills shortages will continue to undermine the delivery of homes, schools, hospitals and essential infrastructure.
At Henry Brothers, we see first-hand the difference that well-supported apprenticeships can make, not only in building individual careers, but in strengthening the long-term capability of the industry as a whole.
The challenge ahead is not simply about filling roles, but about rebalancing how we value different forms of education. University and apprenticeships should be seen as equal, not competing, pathways, each suited to different strengths, ambitions and learning styles.
Changing perceptions must go hand in hand with meaningful action.
Jody Wilkinson, managing director for Northern Ireland and Scotland at Henry Brothers (DARREN KIDD)
By learning from the challenges experienced in 2025 and working together – government, schools, parents and industry – we can ensure young people are empowered to choose the path that is right for them, and that Northern Ireland has the skilled workforce it needs for the future.
- Jody Wilkinson is managing director for Northern Ireland and Scotland at Henry Brothers