Registrations are now open for SkillBuild 2025, the UK's largest and longest-running multi-trade skills competition, delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

The competition provides a platform for apprentices and trainees across the UK to showcase their skills and compete for the title of champion in their chosen trade.

"SkillBuild is a fantastic opportunity for the UK’s trainee construction talent to showcase their skills, whilst also learning new ones as they immerse themselves in the competition," said Richard Bullock, head of careers products at CITB. "The feedback from those who participate each year is outstanding, and I strongly encourage anyone who is able to participate to register for this year’s competition."

SkillBuild 2025 will see competitors battle it out in ten disciplines, including bricklaying, carpentry, drylining, furniture and cabinet making, joinery, painting and decorating, plastering, roof slating and tiling, stonemasonry, and wall and floor tiling.

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Regional Qualifiers will take place across the UK from April to July 2025, with the Scottish events scheduled for:

• June 10th: Dundee and Angus College

• June 12th: Historical Environment Scotland, Stirling (stonemasonry only)

The eight highest-scoring competitors in each skill category will then progress to the SkillBuild National Final.

With the construction industry facing a significant skills shortage, SkillBuild plays a vital role in showcasing the diverse range of career opportunities available within the sector. CITB's Construction Skills Network report forecasts a need for over 250,000 new construction workers by 2028, highlighting the importance of initiatives like SkillBuild in attracting and developing the next generation of skilled construction professionals.

"Winning SkillBuild is an incredible feeling," said Kyle Blower, SkillBuild 2025 bricklaying winner. "I've always wanted to be a bricklayer. My dad competed in bricklaying competitions when he was younger, winning World Skills in 1997. He inspired me to take up bricklaying and compete in SkillBuild so I'm proud to follow in his footsteps. SkillBuild is massive for me – it's boosted my confidence, taught me how to work under pressure, manage my time and so much more. Anyone considering entering should give it a go!"