Economy Minister Simon Hamilton has announced 50 new civil engineering apprenticeships through the Work + programme in association with The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). Lagan Construction Group are among the number of employers participating in Work+ scheme.
The apprenticeships will enable apprentices to earn as they learn from the age of 16, gain invaluable industry experience, and provide a direct progression pathway to higher levels of professional and technical work.
“Creating high quality jobs that focus on the skills needed to grow and increase the competitiveness of our economy is a key priority for me. These new apprenticeships support the findings of the Northern Ireland Skills Barometer report, which identified civil engineering as a growing sector which will have high demand, in the top 25 sectors, for leavers with intermediate to higher level qualifications, over the next 10 years. The new civil engineering apprenticeship demonstrates an effective partnership approach, putting employers firmly in the driving seat and working closely with the Further Education colleges. This new apprenticeship scheme will allow apprentices to work and gain the qualifications, experience and broader transferable skills they need for long-term progression in education and employment.”Simon Hamilton, Economy Minister
Apprentices will attend college on a day release basis for two years, while working full-time for their employer. All six of Northern Ireland’s FE colleges are taking part, and participating companies are offering up to 50 apprenticeship places.
“Civil engineering is an exciting and growing sector, and we want to attract a diverse group of people who will build Northern Ireland’s future and provide better quality of life for its communities. We are encouraging anyone interested in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) to apply – you will be able start on a salary of £10,000 from your first day, work towards a professional qualification, and take your first step into a lifelong career.”Richard Kirk, ICE Regional Director
For those wishing to apply for an apprenticeship with Lagan Construction Group please visit our current vacancies page for more information: www.laganscg.com/careers/current-vacancies/
Employers who wish to join the scheme can find more information at: www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/workplus
The apprenticeship supports findings from the government’s Skills Barometer Report, which identified civil engineering as a sector which should have high demand over the next ten years at Level 3-5.
Pictured: L-R: Ciara Lappin (Doran Consulting), Simon Hamilton (Economy Minister), Ciara Doherty (Lagan Construction Group) and Richard Kirk (ICE Regional Director)