Colleges across the UK are preparing to host the largest and longest-running construction skills competition, with over 1,000 students set to compete in the SkillBuild 2024 Regional Qualifiers this year.

SkillBuild is delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and showcases some of the construction industry's brightest talent, as highly skilled trainees and apprentices go head-to-head to be crowned winner of their chosen trade.

Across ten different trades, competitors will be tested on their technical abilities, time management, problem solving and skills working under pressure. However, the prestigious competition comes with many benefits, being proven to improve technical and employability skills, as well as advancing career options.

There are 19 Regional Qualifiers taking place across the UK from 23 April through to 4 July. These one-day events bring together learners who complete a set task relevant to their trade.

Following the Regional Qualifiers, the top eight scoring competitors from each trade category will be invited to take part in the UK National Final. Following last year's success, the National Final will again take place at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes from 18-22 November 2024. The arena has previously played host to the National Badminton Championships, darts tournaments and various music concerts.

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With an extra 225,000 workers required to meet UK construction demand by 2027, SkillBuild is a fantastic opportunity to promote the diverse range of roles available and showcase the industry to new audiences.

SkillBuild 2023 Painting and Decorating winner, Jacqui Hawthorne, said: "SkillBuild is a great competition for construction learners and apprentices as it tests your abilities and really challenges you.

"I have been through the SkillBuild competition process three years in a row and last year I won 1st place in Painting and Decorating, which I am incredibly proud of. Knowing that you have competed against some of the best learners and apprentices in the country from hundreds of entrants and won is the most amazing feeling and it really helps to progress you through your career.

"I am now starting my journey as a trainee judge for the Painting and Decorating team at SkillBuild and I'm really looking forward to seeing the fresh new talent that comes through the competition this year."

Tim Balcon, CITB CEO, said: "I am thrilled to see a record number of competitors stepping up to showcase their skills at the SkillBuild 2024 Regional Qualifiers. Let's champion each and every one of them as they pave the way for the future of construction, inspiring others to join this dynamic and essential industry.

"SkillBuild is a brilliant initiative that not only helps young people grow their confidence and social skills, but it's also a fantastic way to assist them professionally by learning new skills and honing their craft in a friendly, diverse environment. It's an opportunity for all of us to witness the magic that happens when passion meets talent."

CITB would like to thank all the fantastic sponsors and supporters of this year's SkillBuild competition: Albion Stone, BAL Adhesives, Band of Builders, Brick Development Association, British Gypsum, Crown Paints, FIS, Institute of Carpenters, N&C Nicobond, NFRC, NSITG, Saint Gobain, Schluter, SPAX, Stabila, Stone Federation, TARMAC, Tilgear, Weber, Wienerberger, and The Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers.